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What Property Managers Need to Know About Pest Control Compliance
New York City Local Law 55, also known as the Asthma-Free Housing Act, was enacted to protect tenants from pest-related health hazards in residential buildings. The law requires property owners and managers of multiple dwellings to adopt Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices when addressing pest infestations. For property managers overseeing buildings across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx, understanding and complying with Local Law 55 is not optional — it is a legal obligation that carries real consequences for non-compliance.
Local Law 55 applies to owners and managing agents of multiple dwellings throughout New York City. This includes:
If your building has three or more residential units, you are subject to the requirements of this law. The regulation is enforced by the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), which conducts inspections and issues violations when non-compliance is identified.
At the core of Local Law 55 is the mandate that property managers use Integrated Pest Management methods rather than relying solely on traditional chemical treatments. IPM is a science-based approach that prioritizes prevention, monitoring, and targeted treatment.
Closing gaps and cracks to prevent pest access to the building
Removing sources that attract and sustain pest populations
Using gel baits, bait stations, and exclusion methods over broadcast spraying
Maintaining programs to prevent recurrence and track pest activity
Important: The law specifically restricts the use of certain pesticides in common areas and individual units, particularly those known to trigger asthma and other respiratory conditions.
One of the most critical aspects of Local Law 55 compliance is documentation. Property managers must maintain detailed records of all pest management activities, including:
These records must be available for review during HPD inspections and can be requested by tenants.
Failure to comply with Local Law 55 can result in HPD violations, fines, and orders to correct. Repeat violations can escalate to more severe penalties, including litigation by the city. Beyond financial penalties, non-compliance puts property managers at risk of tenant complaints, negative publicity, and potential liability for health issues related to improper pest control practices. In a city where tenant advocacy is strong and HPD enforcement is active, maintaining compliance is essential to protecting both residents and your bottom line.
Empire Exterminating has served NYC property managers for decades. We understand Local Law 55 inside and out.
Comprehensive building inspections and IPM assessments
Customized treatment plans using least-toxic methods approved under the law
Complete documentation packages suitable for HPD review
Ongoing monitoring and prevention programs for year-round compliance
Whether you manage a single building or hundreds of units, Empire Exterminating has you covered.
Free compliance assessment for NYC property managers