December 2025 Bulletin to Property Owners

Dear Property Owners, 
  
The Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) periodically provides updates on new legislation and information on available materials and resources to residential building owners to support compliance with the New York City Housing Maintenance Code, the New York State Multiple Dwelling Law and other relevant city codes. Visit HPD's webpage  to read this bulletin (and past bulletins) in other languages. 
 
This publication is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. This information is not a complete or final statement of all the duties of owners and tenants regarding laws and rules relating to housing in New York City. 

In addition to providing reminders about annual compliance activities and required notices, at the end of this bulletin you will find important information about a new requirement related to rent-stabilized residential properties and a change in rules that provides an option to digitally post some HPD required signage.  
IMPORTANT DATES (Further Details on Requirements are Below)

If you are not currently validly registered with HPD, note that violations for Failure to Register have been issued; if you are still out of compliance with this requirement, go to REGISTRATION !
 
DECEMBER 1 THROUGH DECEMBER 31: Annual Bedbug Filing (file online with HPD). Property owners of multiple dwelling(s) are required to file the Annual Bed Bug Report electronically with HPD. Only non-corporate owners (individual owners or joint owners) may submit paper reports. The filing period starts December 1st and ends December 31st. For more information about Bedbug filing visit HPD’s Bed Bugs webpage. 
  
BY JANUARY 16: Window Guard annual inquiry regarding the presence of a child under 11 must be delivered to all tenants in multiple dwellings (buildings with 3 or more units). You can use either the combined Protect Your Child From Lead Poisoning and Window Falls Annual Notice (if your building was built prior to 1960), which is also available in Spanish,  See below for important updates to the requirements related to window guards AND a link to the new revised annual notice.
 
Annually inspect units for indoor allergen hazards such as mice, cockroaches, rats, and mold. You can keep records properly by using HPD's.See below for important resources related to integrated pest management, rats and to training being planned by the Department of Health on allergen hazards. 
 
Annually distribute a Notice regarding the availability of Stove Knob Covers to tenants. Note that the Annual Notice to be provided to tenant was revised in 2024 and landlords should download the new notice.  As a reminder, owners are required to provide either stove knob covers or permanent stove safety knobs with integrated locking mechanisms to tenants in each dwelling unit in which the owner knows or reasonably should know a child under six years of age resides, or when requested to do so in writing by the tenant. The owner must provide the type of device requested unless there are no available stove knob covers or permanent stove safety knobs with integrated locking mechanisms that are compatible with the knobs on the stove.  

Reminder about other issues that you can check for when conducting annual allergen hazard, lead-based paint, and window guard apartment inspections. Note that these are all issues that a Housing Inspector will check for when conducting an inspection for any given reason:

• Apartment and public area doors that do not self-close  Self-Closing Doors - HPD (nyc.gov)
• Fire Safety Notices on the back of apartment doors  
• Non-combustible fireproof building sample notice
• Combustible non-fireproof building sample notice.
• Carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors should be present and working. As a landlord, you are responsible for replacing any carbon monoxide and smoke detectors upon the expiration of its useful life.
• Double-cylinder locks on doors, or fire gates on windows that are unapproved (by the FDNY) – these must be removed.
  

Bedbug Annual Report
 
Property owners of multiple dwelling(s) are required to file a Bed Bug Annual Report with HPD every year between December 1 and December 31; failure to file timely will result in a violation. The reporting period to be covered in the Bedbug Annual Report is November 2024 through October 2025. This filing is FREE, requires only five pieces of information which you must provide and must be done by a registered owner or agent.  Please be aware that in the past, private companies have reached out to property owners attempting to obtain significant fees for the filing of this report. 
 
•    Corporate owners (corporations, LLCs, etc.) can only file electronically through the application available at Annual Bed Bug Report.  Paper submissions will be returned to you. 
o    Guidance for Electronic Filers having Username or Password Issues: 
    Forgot Password Only: If you know your Username, click on the “Forgot Your Password?” button on the bottom of the HPD Enforcement Desk sign-in page. You will be prompted to enter your Username (email address).  You will then receive an email containing instructions about how to change your password. Please note: this feature will only work if you enter a valid Username. If you do receive an email, please follow the instructions in Forget both your Username and Password below. 
    Forgot both your Username and Password: Email enforcementdesk@hpd.nyc.gov or call Karen Whitley (212) 863-7437. 
 
•    Individual owners and joint owners (as indicated on your property registration) can file electronically but may alternatively file using a paper form.  Copies of this form are available at Bed Bug Annual Filing Form . 
 
In order to file, the property must be validly registered in the HPD Registration System. If the property is currently registered through August 31, 2026 but you are still having trouble submitting your application/form, please email the HPD Enforcement Desk at: enforcementdesk@hpd.nyc.gov If the building is not currently registered or you are not sure if the property is registered, please register your building or check the information by clicking on this link Register Your Property - HPD. 
 
The owner is required to provide the filing to the tenant, either by posting the report or distributing it to tenants, along with a copy of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s Stop Bedbugs Safely.

Window Guard Annual Notice (January 1 - January 16)
 
IMPORTANT: THE REQUIRED NOTICE HAS CHANGED!  
 
The Annual Notice regarding Window Guards, which is required to be distributed to tenants for all residential properties with 3 or more apartments, has been updated due to changes to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s rules.  The annual notice is not required, but recommended, for residential properties with 1 or 2 units.  Window guards save the lives of children every year. This Notice advises tenants that they are entitled to window guards, and the rules require the property owner to install window guards if they receive notice that a child under 11 resides in the apartment.
 
Depending on whether the building was built prior to 1960, an owner can provide the tenants with a Window Guard Annual Notice (post 1960) or use the combined form (also inquiring about a child under 6 for lead-based paint compliance):
 
•    Window Guard Annual Notice 
•    Combined Lead-based Paint and Window Guard Annual Notice in and in English and Spanish
 
AGAIN, PLEASE NOTE THAT THESE NOTICES HAVE BEEN CHANGED AND YOU SHOULD USE THE NEW NOTICE FOR THIS YEAR’S NOTIFICATION.
 
UPDATES to NYC Window Guard Rules
The NYC Health Department has adopted the following updates to the City’s window guard rules to reflect changes in building design and technology.  These updates will go into effect on January 1, 2026.  The window guard law, enacted in 1976 to prevent fatal and serious falls by young children (aged 10 or younger), has contributed to a dramatic reduction in falls – from 217 in 1976 to 9 falls in 2024.  
 
o Update to window safety requirements to match modern window designs. 
o Update window guard rules to align with the new “reside” definition (a child resides if they routinely spend 10 or more hours a week in an apartment). 
o Incorporate new technology for window-limiting devices and emerging window types. 
o Streamline approval of new windows and safety devices by replacing the Window Guard Policy & Acceptance board with a new registration process. 
o Add requirements for proper installation of window air conditioners, since many child falls happen due to improper A/C installation or removal. 
o Require window fall prevention devices on any window that opens onto a balcony or terrace above the first or ground floor in multi-unit buildings. 
 
In windows with air conditioners, building owners should permanently install window AC units using one-way tamper-resistant screws in apartments where a child aged 10 or younger lives. The AC should be permanently and securely bolted into the window frame without leaving any open space greater than four-and-a-half inches. Rigid material should be used on all sides of AC units to prevent any accidents from occurring.  Contacting the landlord for professional installation is encouraged to ensure safety and compliance.
In dwelling units with children 10 years of age or younger, tenants must inform the building owner by completing the annual notice provided by the landlord that a child 10 or under resides in an apartment. Once the building owner is informed, the tenant should:
•    Allow the building owner or a representative access to the apartment to install window guards or stopping devices that keep windows from opening more than 4½ inches.
•    Never alter or remove window guards or limiting devices once they are installed.
Find out more about window guards on the Health Department Window Guards webpage. You can also email questions to windowfallprevention@health.nyc.gov.

Indoor Allergen Hazards
 
Owners of multiple dwellings are required by Local Law 55 of 2018 to:
•    Inspect units annually for indoor allergen hazards such as mice, cockroaches, rats, and mold, and respond to any complaints received directly from tenants or HPD.
•    Make sure vacant apartments are thoroughly cleaned and free of pests and mold during vacancy and before a new tenant moves in.
•    Provide the and a Notice with each tenant's lease that clearly states with each tenant's lease that clearly states the property owner's responsibilities to keep the building free of indoor allergens. the property owner's responsibilities to keep the building free of indoor allergens.
•    Remediate pests.
o    Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to address pest infestations. The safe work practices in Section 27-2017.9 of Local Law 55 and Title 28 Rules of the City of New York section 54-04 must be followed when assessing and correcting any underlying defects (such as moisture) that may have caused the infestation.
o    The DOHMH website provides more information about IPM requirements. If your building has pests such as mice, bedbugs, roaches, or rats, use the to develop a pest management plan.  Some buildings may be ordered to develop a pest management plan if pests are found unremediated on the premises. IPM Toolkit to develop a pest management plan.  Some buildings may be ordered to develop a pest management plan if pests are found unremediated on the premises.
o    You may receive violations from HPD and orders from the DOHMH related to pest conditions.
•    Remediate mold conditions in accordance with the law. 
o    If the property has 10 or more units, you are required to utilize properly licensed mold assessors and mold remediators.
o    For more information on mold remediation and the specific requirements for your building (work practices and required contractors), see our Indoor Allergen Hazards webpage.
•    Find more information by viewing HPD’s Webinar Pests and Mold An Owners’ Guide to Indoor Allergen Laws.  The DOHMH will also be providing a training on mold and pests in early 2026; you will receive notification of the availability of the training as dates are scheduled.

Stove Knob Covers Annual Notice
 
Property owners of multiple dwellings are required to provide tenants with an Annual Notice (available in multiple languages on HPD’s website page) on Stove Knob Covers which must inform tenants that:
 
•    Tenants may also request stove knob covers or permanent stove safety knobs with integrated locking mechanisms whether they have a child under age six residing with them or not. 
•    The owner is required to provide the requested type of device unless the owner can document that there was no available device of the type requested for the specific stove that the tenant has.
•    Owners must make the stove knob covers available within 30 days of the written request by the tenant. 
•    An owner is only required to provide replacement stove knob covers or permanent stove safety knobs with integrated locking mechanisms twice within any one-year period.
 
It is the owner’s obligation to keep documented proof for five years of delivering the annual notice, including: a list of units for which stove knob covers or permanent stove safety knobs with integrated locking mechanisms (collectively “safety devices”) were provided; a list of written requests from units for safety devices and the attempts to make them available; and a list of units which requested safety devices, but where such safety devices could not be made available and documented proof that either compatible safety devices were not available or that the stove was not a gas stove. Owners are not required to submit notices to HPD unless audited for such documents.

Natural Gas Detecting Devices 
 
Local Law 102 of 2025 has extended the compliance date for the installation of natural gas detectors until January 1, 2027, at the earliest.   HPD Rules §§ 12-01, 12-02, 12-09.1, 12-09.2, and 12-12.1 covering the installation and noticing of natural gas detectors are also inapplicable until January 1, 2027, at the earliest. Please be aware this January 1, 2027 compliance date for the referenced HPD Rules regarding the installation and noticing of natural gas detectors may be extended depending upon the City’s determination of the availability of natural gas detectors that comply with the requirements of the New York City Construction Codes. 
 
For more information, visit DOB’s FAQs: Natural Gas Detection Devices. 

Gas Safety 
 
Gas leaks are extremely dangerous and can create fires and explosions. Buildings which have gas service are required to maintain that service safely.  Property owners are required by New York City law to post a  Suspected Gas Leaks Notice for tenants about how to identify gas odors and how to act once they believe that there is a gas leak. HPD will issue a violation for failure to post the required notice.  The notice advises tenants that if they smell gas, they should go outside and call 911 and the utility company to report a gas emergency.  Owners must enter the appropriate utility information onto the required posting notice: National Grid, which services Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island can be reached at 718-643-4050, and Con Edison customers can call 1-800-75 CONED (1-800-752-6633) to report a gas emergency.  
 
For more information and resources on gas safety and awareness, please visit National Grid’s Natural Gas Safety or download a copy of their New York City Gas Safety Brochure. 
 
It is illegal and dangerous to make changes to a gas system – including adding facilities such as gas dryers – without filing with and approval by the Department of Buildings, or to repair gas service that has been shut off by the DOB, the Fire Department, or a utility company. Such action can result in significant fines and a loss of service for the entire building.  Gas restoration, new gas service, or replacements of gas services should always be completed by a licensed plumber.  Property owners are required to act to restore gas for heat and hot water or gas for cooking immediately once any of those services are disrupted.

Interruption of Service
 
Local Law 47 of 2015 requires owners post a Notice of Interruption of Services prior to making repairs or performing any other work that will cause an interruption of any heat, hot water, cold water, gas, or electricity service expected to last for two or more hours.  The notice must be publicly posted at least twenty-four hours before the interruption of such service is expected to commence and must remain posted until such interruption ends. The notice must be posted in English and in Spanish and must be updated as needed.

HEAP is now open: apply while funding lasts!

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is a federally funded program that helps eligible homeowners and renters in New York State to heat and cool their homes. Applicants can apply online via ACCESS HRA. Applications accepted until funds are exhausted.
 
If eligible, homeowners or tenants may receive one regular HEAP benefit per program year to help pay for heating or cooling.
 
Here is a flyer that property owners may wish to post in a public area of the premises for tenants who may be interested or who may benefit from this program.
 
Additional information can be found here: Energy Assistance - HRA

Small Affordable Multifamily Energy Studies Offering
 
Free energy audits for qualifying buildings (50,000 square feet or less)
 
NYSERDA's Small Affordable Multifamily Energy Studies (SAMES) program provides a no-cost energy audit and delivers a final report with actionable recommendations to improve efficiency, performance, and comfort in small (50,000 square feet or less), affordable multifamily properties. It’s a great way for owners to uncover savings opportunities with minimal effort.

NEW REQUIREMENTS COMING SOON:
 
Notice to Tenants of Rent Stabilized Dwelling Units
 
Starting January 26, 2026, as required by Local Law 86 of 2025, any multiple dwelling that contains one or more dwelling units subject to the rent stabilization law of 1969 pursuant to chapter 4 of title 26, is required to post a notice to tenants of rent stabilized dwelling units in English and in Spanish, in a conspicuous location within the common area at the entrance of the building, notifying tenants of the following:

This building contains one or more units that are subject to the Rent Stabilization Law of 1969. To find out if your unit is registered as rent stabilized, contact the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) by calling 718-264-3800 or go online to www.hcr.ny.gov . Owners of such buildings must submit an annual registration to DHCR and provide each tenant with a copy of the information that pertains to their unit. Owners that fail to file may be subject to penalties.

The notice must also display the building address and the property registration number.
The notice will be available in English/Spanish and in multiple languages at Required Signage - HPD 

Digital Signage Requirements 
 
The Housing Maintenance Code (contained in the NYC Administrative Code), Multiple Dwelling Law, and the Rules of the City of New York require signage to be posted at buildings, documents to be filed with New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), and notices to be provided by property owners to tenants.  
 
Beginning early 2026, HPD rule amendments will provide owners with the option of installing digital signage to fulfill some of the notice requirements contained within HPD rules and the Housing Maintenance Code. Owners will be able to  post a digital signage rather than printed signs to comply with signage requirements for the following required notices: Bedbug Annual Filing Receipt, Detectors, Garbage Collection, Internet Capable Temperature Reporting Devices, and Interruption of Services. 
 
If an owner chooses to use digital signage, they must use digital signage for all of these notices.  
 
Digital signs will be  required to comply with the following requirements. 
1.    Font Size and Type:  Letters that display the title and the content of a digital sign shall be a minimum size of .25 inches at all times.  Lettering must also be of bold type that is properly spaced to provide good legibility on a background of contrasting colors 
2.    Placement: The digital sign must be placed in a common area of the building and be readily visible. 
3.    Lighting: The lighting must be sufficient to make the digital sign easily legible. 
4.    Accessibility:  The digital sign must comply with all applicable standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) Standards for Accessible Design. 
5.    Language:  The digital sign must be in English, Spanish, and such other language as the owner deems necessary to adequately provide notice to the occupants. 
 
Printed signs must still be used for compliance with signage requirements for the following signs:
 
o   Construction Bill of Rights 
o   Gas Leak 
o   Fire Safety 
o   Shut the Door 
o   Certificate of Inspection Visits in Frame 
o   Name and Location of Person with Keys to Boiler Room 
o   Floor Sign 
o   Street Number on Dwelling  
o   Janitor Name and Address 
o   Maximum Capacity in Rooms 
o   Disaster Response 
o   Serial Number    
 
HPD’s authority for these rules is found in sections 1043 and 1802 of the New York City Charter and Local Law 157 for the year 2016, as amended by Local Law 102 for the year 2025.  More information about all of this signage and samples can be found at  Required Signage - HPD.