Local Law 157 Compliance Guide

Approved Solutions & Resources for Multifamily Owners

Deadline: May 1, 2025

What is Local Law 157?

Local Law 157 of 2016 was enacted in response to several deadly gas explosions in New York City, including the tragic incidents in East Harlem (2014) and the East Village (2015). These events highlighted the need for earlier detection of gas leaks in residential buildings to save lives and prevent catastrophic damage.

To address the risk, Local Law 157 requires the installation of natural gas alarms in every apartment with gas piping by May 1, 2025.

This law applies to all residential buildings in NYC, regardless of size or occupancy, and is in addition to existing requirements for:

  • Smoke Alarms

  • Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Approved Solution

As of now, DeNova Detect™ is the only natural gas alarm that meets all NYC Local Law 157 compliance requirements and is readily available for multifamily property owners.

  • UL 1484 Certified – Required by NYC DOB

  • NFPA 715 Compliant – Follows the latest national safety standards

  • Accurate Methane Detection – Detects natural gas leaks early

  • Easy to Install – Battery-powered or plug-in with flexible placement

Other detectors sold online (including many on Amazon) do not meet NYC’s listing and labeling requirements and will not satisfy Local Law 157.

Buy from an Authorized Distributor (list below) to ensure full compliance and avoid costly violations.

Installation Guidance

At this time, installation services are not widely available, but the units are simple to install.

Pro Tip: Use a screw or heavy-duty adhesive hook to mount the detector on the wall in the proper location.

Refer to the NFPA Fact Sheet for placement recommendations.

To comply with Local Law 157, alarms must be installed in the same room as any fuel-gas-burning appliance (such as a stove, oven, or boiler). Here’s what the rule mandates:

  • Distance from Appliance:
    Install the alarm at least 3 feet, but no more than 10 feet from the appliance, measured horizontally.

  • Mounting Height:

    • If mounted on the wall, place the alarm within 12 inches of the ceiling.

    • Alarms can also be mounted directly on the ceiling.

  • Special Circumstances:
    If your space doesn’t allow installation at least 3 feet away, or if manufacturer instructions or NFPA 715-2023 specify a different location, follow those guidelines instead.

Approved Distributors

Our Solutions

Compliance & Risk Mitigation

We tackle NYC’s ever-changing regulations so you can avoid costly penalties, safeguard profits, and focus on what matters most.

Property Performance Optimization

We optimize your property’s financial performance by maximizing income, reducing expenses, and uncovering new revenue streams.

Exit Strategy & Execution

We create a tailored exit strategy to ensure you sell for the maximum value with a seamless closing process.

Contact us.

EZ@BurtProp.com

(646) 491-8125