Jonathan H. Newman in New York Times, Real Estate Section, THE INSTALLATION OF AN AIR-CONDITIONER, August 28, 2011

By: Jay Romano

Q: I am a tenant in the five-story rent-stabilized building. My landlord informed me in a letter that the law requires me to hire a licensed contractor to install a bracket under my small window air-conditioner. There is nothing about this in my lease. What am I required to do by law?

A: Jonathan H. Newman, a Manhattan real estate lawyer, said that while all air-conditioners must be installed in a "safe, stable and secure matter," no particular installation method is mandated other than for machines larger than 36,000 B.T.U. But because an improper installation can expose both landlord and tenant to personal liability, it's in everyone's best interests to ensure that the unit is securely attached. More information can be found on the Department of Buildings Web site at www.nyc.gov. (Search for air-conditioner installation tips.)