Cal. Civ. Code § 251
Vent flues
Operative Text
§ 251. Vent flues. Supplementary water-closet compartments and bathrooms in fireproof tenements shall be ventilated and lighted in accordance with the applicable provisions of section seventy-six.
N.Y. Mult. Dwell. Law § 251 establishes that supplementary water-closet compartments and bathrooms located in fireproof tenements must meet specific ventilation and lighting standards. Rather than setting out independent requirements, the provision directs compliance with the ventilation and lighting rules already contained in section seventy-six of the same law. In effect, the rule ensures that these secondary bathroom spaces are held to the same baseline habitability standards as other regulated spaces in the building.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under N.Y. Mult. Dwell. Law § 251, operators of fireproof tenements generally ensure that any supplementary water-closet compartments and bathrooms are ventilated and lighted in a manner consistent with the cross-referenced requirements of section seventy-six. Compliant building managers typically review both provisions together when assessing whether these spaces meet code, and they address any deficiencies in ventilation or lighting as part of routine maintenance and inspection cycles. Keeping documentation of inspections and any corrective work can support a showing of ongoing compliance.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
N.Y. Mult. Dwell. Law § 251 gives tenants in fireproof tenements a basis to expect that supplementary bathrooms and water-closet compartments are properly ventilated and lit in accordance with section seventy-six's standards. If a tenant believes these spaces lack adequate ventilation or lighting, general enforcement paths include raising the condition with building management in writing, filing a complaint with the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development or the relevant local housing authority, or contacting a tenant-rights organization for guidance. Documented conditions—such as photographs and written communications—can be useful when pursuing any of these avenues.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated September 13, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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