Watervliet, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 175 § 175-29
Access and vertical travel between stories
Operative Text
A. Stairs, both interior and exterior, shall be of sufficient width, in conformity with generally accepted standards, so as to serve the occupants. B. Railings shall be provided on open portions of stairs, balconies, landings and stairwells.
Section 175-29 of Watervliet's housing code establishes baseline safety standards for vertical travel within and around residential buildings. Stairs—whether inside or outside—must be wide enough to adequately serve the people who use them, measured against generally accepted standards. Open sections of stairs, balconies, landings, and stairwells must all be equipped with railings to reduce the risk of falls.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 175-29, compliant property operators ensure that all stairways on their properties meet generally accepted width standards relative to the number of occupants served. Railings are required on any open portion of a stair, balcony, landing, or stairwell—not just interior ones. Routine inspections of these features, and prompt repair of damaged or missing railings, are consistent with what a compliant operator generally maintains.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 175-29 gives occupants a basis to raise concerns when stairs are too narrow to safely serve residents or when railings are absent from open stair sections, balconies, landings, or stairwells. Tenants who observe these conditions may report them to the City of Watervliet's code enforcement office, which has authority to inspect and require corrections. Tenant-rights organizations can also help residents understand how to document conditions and what general enforcement paths may be available.
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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