New York City Health Department code requires landlords of multiple dwelling (three apartments or more) to provide, install and maintain approved window guards in apartment and public hallways windows where children under 11 years old reside. Landlords are also required to install window guards when requested by the tenant even if no child under 11 years old resides in the household.
Windows should not open more than 4.5 inches above the window guard; window stoppers must be placed on window frames to prevent the window from opening more than the specified (4.5 inches) height. In addition, window guards must be installed using one-way or tamperproof screws .
Exceptions are made if:
• The window provides access to the fire escape.
• The window is a secondary egress in a first floor apartment where there are fire escapes on upper floors.
• A window has a permanently mounted and properly installed air conditioner.
