Is this legal?
Question:I'm moving into a 23rd floor apartment with huge windows along one wall in the living room and bedroom. The light is great, but the windows start at 2 ft 3 inches from the floor (about mid-calf on me) and stretch up to the ceiling. And...they have no screens! The manager said that none of the apts. have window screens (I looked at others and she's right). All I can picture is a guest (or myself/roommate) taking one drunken (or clumsy) stumble, or even rolling out of bed the wrong way (well, obviously we won't put it right next to the window, but it would be possible)...and out the window. They scare the bajebus out of me, really.
1) is it legal to have windows that are so low, so high up, and have no screens?
2) what are some simple, low-cost ways that I can install (or have installed) safety devices (I'd have to clear hole-drilling etc. w/management)?
any safety/building code tips are appreciated by myself, my roommate, and our future guests! thanks!
Answers:
I'd have to say that it is legal; after, the building had to pass inspection during construction.
To give yourself more piece-of-mind, there are a couple of options. You can place a heavy piece of furniture in front of the window (like a couch). You could also cover part (or all) of the window with a decorative metal grill, or wooden lattice.
You might also ask a few neighbors what, if anything, they've done to correct the problem.
I'd recommend installing some kind of wood or metal railing about 3 feet from the floor in front of the windows. It would be attached to the frames between the windows.
I have no idea if it's illegal to have that hazard present, but if someone ever did fall out the window, the owner could be liable, especially if you talked to the manager.
A drunk or someone who falls out of the window isn't going to be stopped by a screen.
Let me put it this way, if you or your friend is Drunk one day and roll off, The screen will Not help you stay in, The screen are there to keep the bugs OUT not people in.
If it's that low from the floor I would think it would be safe unless you run toward the window with full force.
What I would do as far as finding out if it's legal, go to the Fire Department and ask them this same question and they will tell you if it's legal or a hazard waiting to happen.
They can also site the building owner for putting people in danger.
and or call the Building and Safety in the City you live in and inform them of your concern they can also shed some light on this matter.
I hope this helps...
good luck.
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