Cohoes, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 215 § 215-16
General provisions
Operative Text
A. At the time of the inspection, the Housing Inspector shall determine the maximum number who may safely occupy apartment in accordance with current housing codes. B. The habitable space shall be provided with natural or artificial light. C. The habitable space shall be provided with natural or mechanical ventilation. D. The Housing Inspector shall determine if the sleeping rooms have adequate privacy. E. Railings shall be provided on open portions of stairs, balconies, landings and stairwells.
Cohoes, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 215 § 215-16 establishes baseline habitability standards that apply at the time of a housing inspection. These standards cover occupancy limits, adequate lighting and ventilation in livable spaces, privacy in sleeping rooms, and the presence of railings on open stairs, balconies, landings, and stairwells. A Housing Inspector evaluates each of these conditions and makes official determinations about safe occupancy and room privacy.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under ch. 215 § 215-16, compliant operators generally ensure that all habitable spaces are equipped with functioning light sources and adequate ventilation, whether natural or mechanical. Railings are maintained on all open stair sections, balconies, landings, and stairwells, and sleeping rooms are arranged to provide occupants with reasonable privacy. Operators also keep occupancy within the limits a Housing Inspector determines to be safe under current housing codes.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 215-16 of the Cohoes Code of Ordinances gives tenants the right to live in a space that meets minimum standards for lighting, ventilation, privacy in sleeping areas, and structural safety features like railings. If a rental unit appears to fall short of these standards, tenants may consider documenting the conditions and reaching out to the Cohoes Housing Inspector's office to request an inspection. Tenant-rights organizations familiar with New York housing law can also help residents understand the general enforcement paths available to them.
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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