Albany, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 231 § 231-40
Interior finishes, trim and decorative materials
Operative Text
Interior finish materials for acoustical correction, surface insulation and decorative treatment on the surfaces of walls and ceilings and interior trim shall be of materials that will not, in burning, give off excessive amounts of smoke or toxic gases.
Albany, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 231 § 231-40 establishes a fire-safety standard for interior finish materials used on walls and ceilings, including acoustical, insulating, and decorative treatments, as well as interior trim. The rule's effect is to prohibit materials that, when they burn, produce excessive smoke or toxic gases. This applies regardless of whether the material is structural or purely cosmetic in nature.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Albany, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 231 § 231-40, compliant property operators generally select interior finish materials—such as wall panels, ceiling tiles, acoustic treatments, insulation, and decorative trim—that meet recognized smoke and toxicity standards when burned. Operators typically retain product specifications, safety data sheets, or test certifications to demonstrate that chosen materials satisfy this requirement. Routine inspections and renovation projects are common occasions to verify that existing and new materials remain in compliance with § 231-40.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Albany, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 231 § 231-40 reflects a right to occupy a space where interior wall and ceiling finishes, acoustic materials, and trim do not pose excessive smoke or toxic-gas hazards in the event of a fire. Tenants who observe materials that appear to violate this standard—such as highly combustible or chemically hazardous finishes—may consider reporting concerns to Albany's local code enforcement or housing inspection office. Tenant-rights organizations familiar with Albany's housing code can help explain what documentation or complaint processes may be available under § 231-40.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 7, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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