Landlord Responsibilities

Summary of ABCs of Housing Owner’s Guide 2023:

Landlord Responsibilities

General Obligations

  • Maintain common areas and apartments in a safe and well-kept condition.
  • Ensure compliance with the Housing Maintenance Code (HMC) and Multiple Dwelling Law (MDL).
  • Address leaks, mold, and pest issues immediately.
  • Provide security measures, proper lighting, heat, hot water, and good building maintenance.
  • Install and maintain smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire safety equipment.
  • Follow lead-based paint safety regulations, including annual inspections and hazard remediation.
  • Post required notices in common areas regarding tenant rights and safety information.

Fire Safety & Emergency Preparedness

  • Ensure self-closing doors function properly in hallways and apartments.
  • Maintain fire escapes and sprinkler systems in working order.
  • Install gas stove knob covers where required.
  • Provide tenants with emergency preparedness guides and post evacuation plans.
  • Display and maintain fire safety notices in the building.

Healthy Housing & Safety Compliance

  • Lead-based paint: Inspect, notify tenants, and properly remediate lead hazards.
  • Mold: Prevent and remediate mold using licensed professionals where applicable.
  • Heat & hot water: Maintain heat at 68°F (daytime) and 62°F (nighttime) during the heating season (October 1–May 31); provide hot water year-round at a minimum of 120°F.
  • Window guards: Install window guards in apartments where children under 10 reside and upon tenant request.
  • Pest control: Address infestations of mice, roaches, and rats using licensed pest control professionals.
  • Bedbug reporting: Submit an annual bedbug report to HPD.

Legal Responsibilities & Compliance

  • Annual property registration with HPD for buildings with three or more units (or 1-2 family homes if the owner does not reside there).
  • Rent registration if the building is rent-stabilized.
  • Certify correction of violations within the required timeframe.
  • Provide tenants with notices about lead safety, window guards, allergen hazards, gas leak signs, and emergency procedures.
  • Comply with Tenant Data Privacy Law if using digital entry systems (e.g., key fobs, smart locks).
  • Follow legal eviction procedures and avoid harassment or illegal lockouts.

Construction & Renovation Rules

  • Obtain proper permits from the Department of Buildings (DOB) before construction.
  • Follow Tenant Protection Plan requirements and provide construction notices to tenants.
  • Ensure that fire safety systems remain operational during renovations.
  • Adhere to lead-safe work practices if disturbing painted surfaces in buildings built before 1978.

Enforcement & Penalties

  • Address HPD violations within specified deadlines to avoid fines or penalties.
  • Participate in enhanced enforcement programs if violations are severe or unresolved.
  • Comply with Local Law 97 for greenhouse gas emissions if applicable.

 

 

 

 

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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.