Frequent NYC Landlord Questions About Window Guards

Based on our site traffic, New York City requirements for window guards seem to be a hot topic for landlords. In fact, this single article has generated more questions and comments than any other. To make it easy for landlords to find answers, we’ve compiled common questions (and answers) in this post.

Do the window guard requirements apply to two-family homes?

New York City’s window guard law applies to an “owner of a multiple dwelling and an owner of a dwelling unit in a multiple dwelling owned as a condominium.” A multiple dwelling describes one that is occupied as “the residence or home of three or more families living independently of each other,” per the NYS Multiple Dwelling Law.

What if a tenant does not return the annual notice?

The law requires landlords to deliver the annual notice to tenants no earlier than January 1 and no later than January 16. If a tenant does not return the signed notice by February 15, and the landlord does not know whether window guards are required:

• The landlord must inspect the unit to determine whether a child age 10 years or younger lives there.
• If the inspection indicates that young children live in the unit, the landlord must determine whether approved window guards are properly installed and maintained.

What if the landlord cannot inspect the apartment?

If a landlord is unable to inspect an apartment for either the need or proper installation of window guards by March 1, he or she must contact the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Write a letter, and describe in detail the efforts made to comply with the window guard law.

Landlords must show evidence of their attempts to inspect and install or repair window guards at reasonable times. Such evidence, for example, might include documentation of visits made after 6:00 p.m. or during weekends.

In addition, landlords need to provide a roster of tenants who did not apply, which includes:

• Landlord name and contact information
• Dates and times when tenant was notified of need for apartment inspection
• Dates and times when the landlord attempted to visit the apartment (including evenings and weekends)
• Apartment number(s) and names of non-compliant tenants, as well as their contact information

What if the tenant refuses window guard installation?

Compliance with the window guard law is not optional for tenants of multiple dwellings. If a tenant refuses window guard installation, landlords can report them online.

Do you have additional questions about window guards or building insurance, call our office at 877-576-5200.