As a New York real estate attorney and landlord-tenant specialist with over 12 years drafting and reviewing thousands of lease riders and notices, I can tell you that the Window Guard Notice NYC (also called the Window Guard Form NYC) is one of the most frequently overlooked – yet heavily fined – requirements in the city. Local Law 11 of 1998 (now codified in NYC Administrative Code § 17-123 and NYC Health Code § 131.15) makes it mandatory for virtually every landlord of a multiple dwelling with units occupied by children 10 or younger to install, maintain, and annually document approved window guards.
In my practice, I’ve helped hundreds of landlords – from 6-unit brownstone owners to 500+ unit management companies – avoid Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) violations that now start at $250 per window and can quickly escalate to thousands of dollars per building. The simplest way to stay compliant? Use a properly drafted, up-to-date window guard notice NYC every single lease cycle.
That’s why I’m giving away my 2025-revised, attorney-drafted Window Guard Form NYC template completely free on this page.
New York City’s window guard requirement is one of the strictest in the nation. The law applies to any multiple dwelling (3+ residential units) where a child 10 years of age or younger resides or is regularly present for a substantial period of time. This includes:
Exemptions are extremely narrow: only ground-floor units and windows with approved permanent stops that prevent opening more than 4½ inches are excused – and even then you still need to serve the notice and keep records.
Source: NYC Health Department – Window Falls Prevention Program (health.ny.gov/prevention/injury_prevention/window_guards.htm) and NYC Administrative Code § 17-123.
Click below to instantly download my fully updated 2025 Window Guard Form NYC in both fillable PDF and editable Word formats. I personally revise this template every January to reflect any DOHMH or HPD guidance changes.
Download Free 2025 Window Guard Notice NYC Template (PDF + Word)
No email required – direct download. Updated November 2025.
Over the years I’ve seen landlords get fined simply because they filled the form out incorrectly. Follow these exact steps:
The NYC Department of Health publishes required language that must appear verbatim. My free template already contains the exact wording from the 2025 DOHMH model form:
| Required Notice Text (Health Code §131.15) |
| “Window guards are metal or aluminum devices installed in windows to prevent children from falling out. Landlords are required by law to install window guards when a tenant has a child age 10 or younger living in the apartment or when requested by the tenant.” |
Never paraphrase – inspectors look for this exact paragraph.
Many board members are shocked to learn that Local Law 11 applies to condos and co-ops exactly the same way. The unit owner (not the association) is responsible for installation when a child under 11 resides in the unit. My template includes an optional rider paragraph specifically for shareholder/proprietary lease situations.
As of 2025, DOHMH and HPD penalties are:
| Violation | Minimum Fine |
|---|---|
| Failure to provide notice | $250 per unit |
| Failure to install requested guards | $500–$1,000 per window + daily penalties |
| False certification | Up to $2,500 + possible criminal referral |
I’ve negotiated dozens of these down, but prevention is infinitely cheaper.
Do I need window guards in a high-floor luxury building with inoperable windows?
Yes – the law still requires the notice and certified installation unless the window literally cannot open more than 4½ inches.
Can I charge tenants for window guard installation?
Absolutely not. Installation and maintenance are 100% landlord responsibility.
What if the tenant refuses to return the form?
Document your attempts (certified mail, email, text) and keep proof you served it. You are still obligated to install if you have knowledge of a child under 11.
In my 12+ years of practice, I’ve never seen a single landlord regret spending five minutes distributing a proper window guard notice NYC. But I’ve seen dozens pay thousands because they used an outdated internet form or simply forgot.
Download my free 2025 template today, add it to your lease package checklist, and sleep better knowing you’re fully compliant with one of NYC’s most strictly enforced safety laws.
Click Here to Download Your Free 2025 Window Guard Form NYC Template Now
Disclaimer: This template and article are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Laws change and individual circumstances vary. Always consult a licensed New York attorney or qualified professional for your specific situation. Template last reviewed and updated November 2025.