Cal. Civ. Code § 51-A
Peepholes
Operative Text
§ 51-a. Peepholes. In every multiple dwelling the owner shall provide and maintain a peephole in the entrance door of each housing unit. Such peephole shall be located, as prescribed by the department, but shall be so located as to enable a person in such housing unit to view from the inside of the entrance door any person immediately outside of the entrance door to such housing unit. The provisions of this section shall not apply to hotels or apartment hotels or to college or school dormitories.
New York Multiple Dwelling Law § 51-A requires that owners of covered multiple dwellings install and keep in working condition a peephole in the entrance door of every housing unit, positioned so that a person inside can see who is standing directly outside. The rule applies to multiple dwellings generally but explicitly excludes hotels, apartment hotels, and college or school dormitories. The placement of the peephole must conform to specifications set by the relevant department.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under N.Y. Mult. Dwell. Law § 51-A, compliant property owners install a functioning peephole in each unit's entrance door and ensure it remains in good repair throughout the tenancy. Operators generally confirm that the peephole's placement meets departmental specifications and allows a clear line of sight to anyone standing immediately outside the door. Routine building inspections are an opportunity to verify that peepholes have not been damaged, obstructed, or removed.
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 § 51-A gives residents of covered multiple dwellings the right to have a properly installed, functioning peephole in their unit's entrance door. If a peephole is missing, broken, or improperly positioned, tenants can document the condition and report it to the local housing or building department, or raise the violation in a housing court proceeding. Tenant-rights organizations familiar with New York housing law can help residents understand the available enforcement paths under this provision.
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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