New York Apartment Law Insider

FEATURE

City Agency Proposes Updates to Window Guard Rules

The proposed rules reflect modern building practices and clarify responsibilities related to window A/C units.

May 23, 2025

The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene recently proposed an update to its window guard regulations. The proposed rules include updated language and technical requirements intended to better protect children in a city where window types and safety technologies have evolved. If finalized, the new rules would take effect on Jan. 1, 2026, replacing the entirety of current Chapter 12 of the city’s Health Code.

MANAGEMENT BASICS

DOB Launches 2025 No-Penalty Inspection Program with Earlier Start Date

With the earlier start this year, DOB encourages owners to act quickly.

May 21, 2025

Eric Yoo

The Department of Buildings has brought back its annual No-Penalty Inspection Program for summer 2025. The program offers penalty-free safety inspections to small landlords across New York City. For 2025, the program runs from May 19 through June 30, a shift from prior years when it ran from late June through July.

IN THE NEWS

NYC Water Board to Consider 3.7% Rate Increase for FY 2026

New rates would take effect July 1 if approved following public hearings.

May 20, 2025

Eric Yoo

Owners should prepare for another increase in water and sewer charges, although the proposed hike for Fiscal Year 2026 is smaller than in recent years. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has put forward a 3.7 percent increase, which, if approved by the NYC Water Board, would go into effect on July 1, 2025.

IN THE NEWS

City Pursues First Lawsuit Under Local Law 18 Against Short-Term Rentals

The case may serve as a precedent for future enforcement.

May 19, 2025

Eric Yoo

The case may serve as a precedent for future enforcement.

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June 2025