NYC Steam Radiator Inspection Requirements: Local Law 151
Updated September 2026 · 5 min read
NYC Local Law 151 requires steam radiator inspections at least every two years in covered buildings, with the annual tenant notice starting January 2027.
What Local Law 151 requires
Local Law 151 of 2025 requires owners of multiple dwelling buildings (3 or more residential units) with steam heat to have steam radiators inspected at least once every two years, in units where a child under six lives and in common areas of those buildings. It is a separate obligation from NYC property registration.
Which units and areas are covered
Covered units are dwelling units with at least one steam radiator where a child under the age of six resides, plus the common areas of the building. HPD's page does not state when the first inspections must be completed, so confirm the current deadline with HPD.
Annual tenant notice beginning January 2027
Beginning January 2027 and every January after, owners must send the notice between January 1 and January 16. Tenants must return it by February 15. Owners must also notify HPD by March 1 about apartments where no tenant responded. Document delivery and returned notices.
What to keep in the compliance record
Keep the inspection date, covered units and common areas, inspection provider, findings, correction records, tenant notices, returned notices, and HPD notifications together. HPD cites a civil penalty of up to $500 for failing to maintain and provide records.
Add the requirement to the portfolio calendar
Record the two-year inspection cycle alongside the January 1–16 notice window, the February 15 response deadline, and the March 1 HPD reporting date. Assign responsibility for each step.
Frequently asked questions
Which NYC buildings are subject to the steam radiator inspection requirement?
Multiple dwelling buildings with 3 or more residential units that have steam heat. Covered units are those where a child under six lives, plus common areas.
How often must NYC steam radiators be inspected?
At least once every two years, according to HPD.
When does the NYC steam radiator annual notice start?
Beginning January 2027, sent between January 1 and January 16. Tenants must return it by February 15.
Sources
Figures in this guide come from these official sources. Rules change, so confirm with the source before acting.
- nyc.gov/site/hpd/services-and-information/inspection-of-stream-radi…
- Steam radiators inspected at least once every two years in covered units (child under six) and common areas; buildings with 3+ units with steam heat.
- Annual notice sent January 1–16 starting January 2027; tenant response by February 15; HPD notified by March 1 of non-responses.
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