Rule guide · Inspections

Mold and pests under Local Law 55, explained.

The Asthma-Free Housing Act makes indoor health part of the maintenance code: owners of buildings with three or more apartments must inspect every unit and common area at least once a year for mold, mice, rats, and roaches, and fix not just the symptom but the condition causing it, usually water.

What it costs to skip: mold and pest conditions draw class B or class C HPD violations depending on severity, with civil penalties per § 27-2115, and they're among the most common violations tenant lawyers lead with.

Applies toMultiple dwellings (3+ apartments) with tenants

The dutyAnnual inspection of every unit + common areas, and prompt response to complaints

Root causeLeaks and moisture must be traced and fixed, not painted over

Bigger jobsMold jobs over 10 sq ft in 10+ unit buildings require NYS-licensed mold assessors/remediators

AgencyHPD

The lawNYC Admin. Code §§ 27-2017–27-2017.12 (Local Law 55 of 2018)

What the annual inspection looks like

Walk every unit once a year (turnover counts) and after any complaint. Look under sinks, around tubs, at exterior walls, behind appliances. Document date, findings, and fixes: your records are the proof the duty was met.

Safe work practices are part of the law

Small mold cleanups must follow safe work practices: contain dust, use proper cleaning methods, fix the moisture source first. For jobs over 10 square feet in buildings with 10 or more units, New York State requires licensed mold assessment and remediation contractors, and the assessor and remediator can't be the same company.

Pests: integrated, not just spray

The law expects integrated pest management: seal the holes and cracks pests use, remove water and food sources, then treat. A monthly exterminator contract that never closes the gap under the sink doesn't satisfy it.

See every rule that applies to your building

Sources: HPD, Local Law 55 duties · Admin. Code §§ 27-2017 et seq.. Reviewed July 4, 2026. This guide organizes public requirements in plain English; it is not legal advice, and No Fines is not affiliated with the City of New York. Confirm specifics with the agency before your deadline.