WHAT THIS LAW REQUIRES

NYC Housing Maintenance Code § 27-2043 requires landlords and property owners to install proper security locking devices on apartment entrance doors in residential buildings. The purpose of this law is to improve tenant safety and reduce unauthorized entry into apartments.

The law mainly applies to Class A multiple dwellings, which generally means permanent residential apartment buildings where tenants live full-time.

SECTION (A) — REQUIRED LOCKS

• Every apartment entrance door must have a working key lock.
• The owner must provide at least one key to the tenant.
• The apartment entrance door must include a heavy-duty latch set.
• The apartment entrance door must also include a heavy-duty deadbolt lock.
• The deadbolt must work with a key from the hallway side and a thumb-turn from inside the apartment.

A heavy-duty deadbolt provides additional protection against forced entry and improves overall apartment security. The thumb-turn requirement allows occupants to exit quickly during emergencies without needing a key.

SECTION (B) — CHAIN DOOR GUARD

Each apartment entrance door in a Class A multiple dwelling must also have a chain door guard or similar security device that allows the door to open partially while preventing full entry.

This allows tenants to:

• Safely identify visitors
• Speak with someone through a partially opened door
• Reduce risk from unauthorized or unexpected entry

WHY THIS LAW IS IMPORTANT

This NYC housing safety requirement helps improve residential security for tenants and residents. Proper locking systems help reduce break-ins, unauthorized access, and unsafe living conditions.

The law is designed to help protect:

• Families
• Children
• Elderly residents
• Vulnerable occupants
• General apartment building security

EXAMPLES OF POSSIBLE VIOLATIONS

• Missing deadbolt lock
• Broken or non-working apartment lock
• No chain guard installed
• Door cannot properly secure or latch
• Tenant was not provided with keys
• Weak or damaged locking hardware

TYPICAL COMPLIANT APARTMENT DOOR SETUP

• Heavy-duty latch lock
• heavy-duty deadbolt
• Key access from outside hallway
• Thumb-turn operation from inside apartment
• Chain guard or swing-bar security latch
• Secure door and reinforced frame

DISCLAIMER:This summary is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, engineering, architectural, or code-compliance advice. Building owners, landlords, contractors, and property managers are responsible for verifying all current requirements with the applicable New York City agencies and licensed professionals. NYC laws, codes, and regulations may change over time.

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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.