NYC Window Guard Law – Detailed Step-by-Step Compliance Guide for Building Owners

This document explains in detail how building owners and managing agents must comply with NYC’s Window Guard annual notice and installation requirements.

LEGAL REQUIREMENT SUMMARY

Window guards must be installed in apartments when:
• A child age 10 or younger lives in the apartment, OR
• A child age 10 or younger routinely spends 10 or more hours per week in the apartment, OR
• A tenant requests window guards at any time (even without children).

Window guards are NOT required on:
• Windows that provide access to fire escapes.
• First-floor windows that are a required means of egress.

STEP 1 – PREPARE THE ANNUAL NOTICE

Each year, prepare the official 'Annual Notice to Tenant or Occupant – Window Guards' form.

Create a tenant list including:
• Unit number
• Tenant name
• Mailing address

Set a clear return deadline (for example: February 15 of the reporting year).

STEP 2 – DELIVER NOTICE TO EVERY UNIT

Deliver the annual notice to each apartment and document:
• Date delivered
• Method of delivery (mail, hand delivery, portal, etc.)
• Person responsible for delivery

Keep proof of delivery for your records.

STEP 3 – TRACK RETURNED FORMS

Create a compliance log for each unit and record:
• Whether a child age 10 or younger lives or spends 10+ hours per week in the unit
• Whether guards are currently installed
• Whether tenant requests installation
• Whether guards require maintenance or repair
• Date form was returned
• Signature verification

STEP 4 – INSTALL WINDOW GUARDS WHEN REQUIRED

You must install window guards if:
• A qualifying child lives in the apartment
• A qualifying child regularly spends 10+ hours weekly in the apartment
• A tenant requests guards (even without children)

Process:
1. Open a work order.
2. Contact tenant to schedule access.
3. Install guards in all required windows.
4. Document installation date and installer details.

STEP 5 – HANDLE MAINTENANCE OR REPAIR REQUESTS

If a tenant reports damaged or loose guards:
• Schedule inspection promptly.
• Repair or replace as needed.
• Document completion date and keep vendor invoice.

STEP 6 – FOLLOW UP ON NON-RETURNED FORMS

If a tenant does not return the form:
1. Send first written reminder.
2. Send second reminder with short deadline.
3. Schedule an inspection if no response.
4. Document all attempts at contact and inspection.

STEP 7 – HANDLE TENANT REFUSAL OR INTERFERENCE

It is unlawful for tenants to:
• Refuse installation where required
• Remove required guards
• Interfere with installation

If refusal occurs:
• Document refusal in writing
• Send follow-up notice offering access dates
• Maintain detailed records of all communication

RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS

Maintain for each unit:
• Copy of annual notice sent
• Proof of delivery
• Returned signed form
• Installation or repair records
• Documentation of follow-up actions

Proper documentation protects against violations and liability.

OWNER COMPLIANCE CHECKLIST

☐ Annual notice sent to all units
☐ Delivery documented
☐ Returned forms logged
☐ Installations completed where required
☐ Repairs completed
☐ Non-responses followed up
☐ Records properly stored

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For more information about what is required, see the laws that are referenced and the rules applicable to your city and state. This page is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice, professional advice or a statement of law. You may wish to consult with an attorney.