New City Window Guard Rules Take Effect Jan. 1, 2026

In our June issue, we reported on the city’s proposed updates to window guard rules that reflect modern building practices and clarify responsibilities for window air conditioning units. (See City Agency Proposes Updates to Window Guard Rules.) The NYC Dept. of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) has now finalized these rules, still scheduled to take effect on Jan. 1, 2026, with a few changes as follows:

• Section 12-03 was revised to provide that annual notice reminders may be transmitted to occupants by any means practical, which includes electronic messaging, or by posting a notice in building common areas, rather than requiring the posting of notices in all instances. 
• Section 12-08(h) was revised to require that the permanent identification on window guards include only the die-stamped Department registration number, and not the manufacturer’s device model or fabrication date. 
• In consideration of the burden on building owners, Section 12-09(i) was revised to remove the requirement that permanent installations of window air conditioning units include rigid side panels. In addition, the revised rule provides that owners are not responsible for arranging permanent installation of window air conditioning units, but rather must inspect and approve the installation to confirm that it is consistent with the installation requirements set forth in the rule.