NYC Window Guard Requirements: What Tenants and Landlords Need to Know

Window guards save lives. In New York City, children under 10 are seriously injured every year from falls through unguarded windows—even from the first floor. NYC law requires window guards in many buildings, and understanding your responsibilities is critical whether you're a tenant or a landlord.

What Are Window Guards?

Window Guard

Window guards are metal or aluminum barriers designed to prevent children from falling out of windows. They are not intended to stop burglars and are required in many NYC homes.

All window guards must:

• Be approved by the NYC Health Department

• Be installed using one-way or tamperproof screws

• Leave no more than 4½ inches of open space between the guard and the window frame

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NYC Window Guard Law: When Are They Required?

You must have window guards if:

• You live in a building with three or more apartments, and

• A child 10 years old or younger lives in your apartment

Other key points:

• Window guards must be installed in all apartment windows (except fire escape access)

• They are also required in common areas like hallways and stairwells

• Even if you don’t have young children, you can still request guards

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Important Safety Reminders

• Screens are not a substitute for window guards

• Guards are required on all window types, including sliding windows

• In apartments with fire escapes, one window per ground-floor unit must remain unguarded for emergency use

• For windows with air conditioners, the AC must be securely and permanently installed with one-way screws

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What If My Landlord Hasn’t Installed Them?

If you qualify for window guards and your landlord hasn’t installed them:

• Request installation in writing

• If they still don’t comply, call 311 or file a complaint online with NYC Housing Preservation and Development (HPD)

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Window Guard Installation in Queens, Brooklyn & Long Island

At Double Eagle Welding, we specialize in the professional installation and repair of NYC-approved window guards. Whether you're a:

• Tenant seeking added protection

• Landlord staying compliant with NYC housing laws

• Property manager looking for reliable safety solutions

—we’ve got you covered.

✅ NYC DOHMH-approved window guards✅ Installed with one-way tamperproof screws✅ Fast turnaround for residential and multi-unit properties.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

📞 Call (646)363-7240 or fill out our contact form to book your installation.Let’s keep your home and your tenants safe!