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Smoke Detecting Devices Notice – 28 RCNY § 12-01 |

Smoke Detecting Devices Notice – Owner’s Posting Requirement

Under 28 RCNY § 12-01, every owner of a Class A multiple dwelling in New York City is required to post a Smoke Detecting Devices Notice. This notice must be in a form approved by the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD). The purpose of the notice is to inform tenants of their rights and responsibilities regarding the installation and maintenance of smoke detecting devices in their apartments.

Location of the Notice

The law requires that the Smoke Detecting Devices Notice be posted at or near the building’s mailboxes, ensuring that it is placed in a common area where all tenants can see it. The placement standard is designed for maximum visibility so that tenants are reminded regularly of the safety measures required by law.

Content of the Notice

The notice must contain information about the installation and maintenance of smoke detecting devices within each dwelling unit. This includes the owner’s responsibility to provide and install the devices, as well as the tenant’s responsibility to keep them in working condition. It must follow the HPD-approved format, meaning owners cannot create their own versions but must use or replicate the official sample notice provided by HPD.

Combined Notice Option

As outlined in 28 RCNY § 12-12.1, instead of posting separate notices, the owner may choose to post a combined notice that includes:

  • Smoke Detecting Devices information,

  • Carbon Monoxide Detecting Devices information, and

  • Gas Leak Procedures.

This combined notice provides all required safety information in one consolidated posting. It reduces clutter in the building’s common areas while still fulfilling the law’s safety communication requirements.

Enforcement and Penalties

HPD inspectors check for the presence of these required postings during inspections. Failure to properly post the Smoke Detecting Devices Notice (or the approved combined notice) may result in violations and fines. Owners are therefore encouraged to use durable, tamper-resistant signage that complies with HPD requirements and remains legible over time.

Conclusion

The Smoke Detecting Devices Notice requirement under 28 RCNY § 12-01 plays a crucial role in fire safety and tenant awareness. By ensuring this notice is posted correctly at or near the mailboxes, building owners demonstrate compliance with NYC law and contribute to safer living conditions. The option to post a combined notice under § 12-12.1 also provides flexibility while streamlining compliance. Property owners should review HPD’s official sample notices and select the posting format that best meets their building’s needs.

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