Use of Landings and Fire Code


Greetings, I live on the top floor of a walk-up and am looking for some clarification on the NYC fire code. The building is 3 floors, with 3 units (one each floor). I currently hang a bicycle by a hook near the entryway to a ladder leading to the roof. There is ample space to walk by without touching the bicycle as it rests in a recessed space which makes it flush with the hallway wall. I have been reading through NYC fire code and I am trying to determine if there is a minimum amount of space necessary to be within code. There is speculation from my landlord that there is an impending inspection and we want to make sure that the current setup is 1) safe and 2) within the law. Can anyone chime in on their experiences of using their landing to store their stuff and if so have you passed inspection? I’m thinking about taking this question to my local firehouse for an answer however I thought I’d start here with homeowners/renters who may have faced a similar situation.

Categories: Inspector
By bklyndave | 10/04/2010 1:34 PM | Comment

Front yard grilling etiquette


Greetings all. I live in an apartment in Carroll Gardens — one with a deep front yard. With the weather finally turning and with no direct access to either the backyard or the roof — I’m looking for some guidance on front yard grilling etiquette. I can’t recall ever seeing anyone doing this on my block however with so much front yard space and so little grilling options I’m wondering if this is kosher. I’d be using a smallish weber charcoal grill. I’m even willing to share with neighbors to buy some good will!

Categories: Etiquette
By bklyndave | 04/24/2009 4:09 PM | Comment

Seasonal timing, boiler replcmnt


I’m in a rental with an unfortunate landlady. Over the last few weeks we’ve had issues with hot water ranging from none at all to luke warm to hot then cold. The current situation involves luke warm water but no hot. The landlady now says she has to replace the boiler altogether and to do that she will have to wait until the warmer weather arrives so as to not disrupt the buildings heat. My question is: 1) does it take long to replace an existing boiler, and 2) what is the temperature or time threshold for providing tenants with heat? Personally we do not need heat when it’s 55+ degrees outside. Is the landlord just buying time or is this a legitimate concern of hers?

Categories: Heating
By bklyndave | 04/09/2009 12:16 PM | Comment