Local Law 157

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Local Law 157 is now in effect

PEPCO Wireless Gas Leak Sensors - The Gold Standard in Safety, Reliability and Compliance

Natural gas leaks pose a serious threat, causing deaths, injuries, and billions in property damage annually. In the United States, undetected leaks are responsible for nearly 20 fatalities and countless injuries every year. The economic impact is significant too, with property damages estimated in the billions.
Following tragic gas explosions in 2014 and 2015, New York City enacted Local Law 157 to enhance residential safety by mandating natural gas detectors in all dwellings.
By May 1, 2025,
Local Law 157 mandates
the installation of
natural gas detectors
in all NYC residences
to monitor for leaks.

PEPCO Monitored Natural Gas Detection Sensors comply with Section 908-02 of LL 157

  • Natural gas detectors under Section 908-02 of Local Law 157 must meet or exceed requirements of NFPA 715-2023.
  • Our 10-year battery-powered sensors are on our monitored wireless system that instantly alarms PEPCO and your management and tenants to a detected leak.
  • The detectors must meet UL1484 and UL2075 certification.
  • PEPCO’s installation specifications meet requirements for placement of sensors within one foot of the ceiling, and no less than three feet or no more than ten feet from each gas appliance.

*Note: A non-monitored, fully compliant stand-alone version of PEPCO detectors is also available and can be upgraded in the field for future monitoring.

The advantages of Pepco Monitored gas detectors are undeniable

Wireless sensor networks can be easily expanded or reconfigured as needed, making them suitable for both small and large-scale applications.
Wireless sensor networks can be easily expanded or reconfigured as needed, making them suitable for both small-scale and large-scale applications.
Our 10-year battery-operated sensors have lower maintenance requirements compared to wired systems.
Our wireless sensor networks have built-in redundancy by utilizing multiple pathways for detecting leaks.
PEPCO monitored systems are connected to our Monitoring Control Center via our cloud-based platform, so you are protected by real-time monitoring and alerts. You know immediately where and when your covered building has a detected leak. Additionally, low battery alarms further ensure all sensors are continuously operational and reporting.
Early detection and alarms calling for response help you and your residents avoid any possible calamity resulting from gas buildup and possible explosions endangering residents and your valuable asset.
Our integrated BMS solutions leverage wireless infrastructure to fully integrate gas leak detection sensors as well as water leak detection and carbon monoxide monitors. Our systems also routinely integrate wireless infrastructure to assess temperature and comfort levels with our managed facilities. PEPCO systems offer comprehensive detection across the full range of possible threats or environmental conditions.

LOCAL LAW 157 FAQs

Local Law 157, also known as the Gas Detector Law, is a New York City ordinance passed in 2016. It requires the installation of natural gas detectors in certain residential buildings to improve safety by alerting occupants to potential gas leaks. Compliance deadline is May 1, 2025 for most residences.

Key points about Local Law 157:
  • Applies to: Single-family homes, apartments in one- or two-family dwellings, and transient housing like hotels and dormitories.
  • Triggered by: The establishment of an industry standard for natural gas detectors by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in April 2022 (NFPA 715).
  • Does not require: Carbon monoxide or smoke detectors, as these were already mandated by earlier laws. However, Local Law 157 focuses specifically on natural gas detectors.
To enhance safety, New York City Local Law 157 mandates natural gas detectors in specific residential buildings. Here’s a breakdown of the covered properties:
  • Single-family homes and permanent residences (private dwellings)
  • One-family and two-family homes (Class A multiple dwellings)
  • Hotels, lodging houses, dormitories, and other transient housing (Class B multiple dwellings)
There’s only one exemption to Local Law 157 regarding natural gas detectors: buildings that do not have natural gas piping or service. This means that all residential buildings in New York City with natural gas access must comply with the law by May 1, 2025
To meet the requirements of Local Law 157, you’ll need to install natural gas detectors that follow these specifications:
  • Standard Compliance: They must comply with the latest version of the National Fire Protection Association standard NFPA 715 (as of June 2024, this is NFPA 715-2023).
  • Placement: Install them within one foot of the ceiling and at least three feet, but no more than ten feet, from any gas-burning appliance.
  • Certification: Look for detectors labeled UL1484 or UL2075, which indicates they have been tested and meet safety standards.
Power Options – You have flexibility in how the detectors are powered:
  • Hardwired: Installed by a licensed electrician (recommended for new construction or renovations).
  • Plug-in: Connected to a constant power source (ideal for existing outlets near the ceiling)
  • Battery-powered: Powered by a long-lasting battery. Monitoring on a low-powered radio (like PEPCO’s proprietary system) is a good option.
Local Law 157 in NYC outlines specific requirements for natural gas detector placement to ensure optimal effectiveness.

Location:
  • Height: Within 1 foot (12 inches) of the ceiling. This placement helps detectors sense natural gas, which tends to rise due to its lighter-than-air nature.
  • Distance from Appliances: At least 3 feet (36 inches) horizontally from any gas-burning appliance. This prevents false alarms triggered by normal appliance operation. However, the maximum distance cannot exceed 10 feet (120 inches) from the appliance. This ensures adequate coverage for potential leaks.
Additional Considerations:
  • Multiple Detectors: While not strictly mandated, consider installing additional detectors in larger residences or those with multiple gas appliances for enhanced coverage.
  • Existing Buildings: In situations where there’s no outlet within a foot of the ceiling (like kitchens or laundry rooms), battery-powered detectors are a good option. This avoids the disruption and cost of installing a new electrical outlet near the ceiling.
Compliance deadline is May 1, 2025. To comply with Local Law 157 and enhance safety in your residence, here’s a breakdown of the installation requirements for natural gas detectors:
  • Placement: Detectors must be installed within one foot of the ceiling and at least three feet, but no more than ten feet, from any gas-burning appliance.
Power Options: You have flexibility in how the detectors are powered:
  • Hardwired: Installed by a licensed electrician (recommended for new construction or renovations).
  • Plug-in: Connected to a constant power source (ideal for existing outlets near the ceiling).
  • Battery-powered: Powered by a long-lasting battery. Monitoring on a low-powered radio (like PEPCO’s proprietary system) is a good option (ideal for existing buildings without nearby outlets or to avoid unsightly cords in kitchens and laundry rooms). Note: This type of system provides additional benefits like near-instant notifications and location identification.
Installation:
  • Hardwired detectors require a licensed electrician. Battery-powered or plug-in detectors can be installed by building owners, maintenance personnel, or tenants.
Benefits of Local Law 157 include:
  • Provides early warning of potential gas leaks.
  • Reduces the risk of gas explosions and saves lives by alerting occupants to potential gas leaks.
  • Avoids costly and disruptive repairs from gas shut-off.
Potential penalties for non-compliance include:
  • Fines: The Department of Building (DOB) could levy fines for non-compliant buildings after the deadline of May 1, 2025.
  • Enforcement Action: The Department of Building (DOB) could take enforcement actions such as stop-work orders and/or building violation citations.
It is important to comply with Local Law 157 by May 1, 2025, to ensure the safety of residents and avoid potential consequences. Refer to these resources for the most up-to-date information regarding compliance and penalties for non-compliance.
New York State Senator Leroy Comrie introduced Senate Bill S3705, aiming to enhance public safety by mandating monitored natural gas detectors in all residences. This proposal comes in response to the concerning number of gas explosions – 51 incidents reported over the past 13 years in New York State.

What the Bill Proposed:
  • Installation of monitored natural gas detectors in all residences.
  • Sensors would eventually report leaks to the State (details on reporting specifics were likely outlined in the original bill text).
Current Status and Considerations:

Senator Comrie is currently working with stakeholders to refine the bill and ensure its effectiveness. Revisions are being made to align with recently updated safety standards from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL). These updated standards require notifications from gas detectors to be sent to a licensed and staffed central monitoring station. This central station would then be responsible for alerting the building occupants, emergency services (911), and the utility company for a coordinated response.
Benefits of monitored natural gas detectors include:
  • Faster response times to potential gas leaks compared to relying solely on resident detection.
  • Increased safety for occupants by ensuring timely alerts to gas emergencies.
  • Enhanced emergency response by building staff for monitored systems.
Owners must comply on or before May 1, 2025

Don't Wait - Get Started Today!

Use this form to tell us about your buildings, get a free estimate and reserve the sensors you need to be compliant with LL157. Or give us a call at 631-940-1030.

LL 157

Are you ready?

Local Law 157 is now in effect

PEPCO Wireless Gas Leak Sensors - The Gold Standard in Safety, Reliability and Compliance

Natural gas leaks pose a serious threat, causing deaths, injuries, and billions in property damage annually. In the United States, undetected leaks are responsible for nearly 20 fatalities and countless injuries every year. The economic impact is significant too, with property damages estimated in the billions.
Frequent incidents over the past decade spurred the passage of Local Law 157, which mandates stricter natural gas leak detection measures.
By May 1, 2025,
Local Law 157 mandates
the installation of
natural gas detectors
in all NYC residences
to monitor for leaks.

PEPCO Monitored Natural Gas Detection Sensors comply with Section 908-02 of LL 157

Requirements of LL 157 for all NYC residences:
  • Natural gas detectors under Section 908-02 of Local Law 157 must meet or exceed requirements of NFPA 715-2023.
  • Our 10 year battery-powered sensors are on our monitored wireless system that instantly alarms PEPCO and your management and tenants to a detected leak.
  • The detectors must meet UL1484 and UL2075 certification.
  • PEPCO’s installation specifications meet requirements for placement of sensors within one foot of the ceiling, and no less than three feet or no more than ten feet from each gas appliance.

*Note: A non-monitored, fully compliant stand-alone version of PEPCO detectors is also available and can be upgraded in the field for future monitoring.

The advantages of Pepco Monitored gas detectors are undeniable

Wireless sensor networks can be easily expanded or reconfigured as needed, making them suitable for both small and large-scale applications.
Wireless sensor networks can be easily expanded or reconfigured as needed, making them suitable for both small-scale and large-scale applications.
Our 10-year battery-operated sensors have lower maintenance requirements compared to wired systems.
Our wireless sensor networks have built-in redundancy by utilizing multiple pathways for detecting leaks.
PEPCO monitored systems are connected to our Monitoring Control Center via our cloud-based platform, so you are protected by real-time monitoring and alerts. You know immediately where and when your covered building has a detected leak. Additionally, low battery alarms further ensure all sensors are continuously operational and reporting.
Early detection and alarms calling for response help you and your residents avoid any possible calamity resulting from gas buildup and possible explosions endangering residents and your valuable asset.
Our integrated BMS solutions leverage wireless infrastructure to fully integrate gas leak detection sensors as well as water leak detection and carbon monoxide monitors. Our systems also routinely integrate wireless infrastructure to assess temperature and comfort levels with our managed facilities. PEPCO systems offer comprehensive detection across the full range of possible threats or environmental conditions.
Local Law 157, also known as the Gas Detector Law, is a New York City ordinance passed in 2016. It requires the installation of natural gas detectors in certain residential buildings to improve safety by alerting occupants to potential gas leaks. Compliance deadline is May 1, 2025 for most residences.

Key points about Local Law 157:
  • Applies to: Single-family homes, apartments in one- or two-family dwellings, and transient housing like hotels and dormitories.
  • Triggered by: The establishment of an industry standard for natural gas detectors by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in April 2022 (NFPA 715).
  • Does not require: Carbon monoxide or smoke detectors, as these were already mandated by earlier laws. However, Local Law 157 focuses specifically on natural gas detectors.
To enhance safety, New York City Local Law 157 mandates natural gas detectors in specific residential buildings. Here’s a breakdown of the covered properties:
  • Single-family homes and permanent residences (private dwellings)
  • One-family and two-family homes (Class A multiple dwellings)
  • Hotels, lodging houses, dormitories, and other transient housing (Class B multiple dwellings)
There’s only one exemption to Local Law 157 regarding natural gas detectors: buildings that do not have natural gas piping or service. This means that all residential buildings in New York City with natural gas access must comply with the law by May 1, 2025
To meet the requirements of Local Law 157, you’ll need to install natural gas detectors that follow these specifications:
  • Standard Compliance: They must comply with the latest version of the National Fire Protection Association standard NFPA 715 (as of June 2024, this is NFPA 715-2023).
  • Placement: Install them within one foot of the ceiling and at least three feet, but no more than ten feet, from any gas-burning appliance.
  • Certification: Look for detectors labeled UL1484 or UL2075, which indicates they have been tested and meet safety standards.
Power Options – You have flexibility in how the detectors are powered:
  • Hardwired: Installed by a licensed electrician (recommended for new construction or renovations).
  • Plug-in: Connected to a constant power source (ideal for existing outlets near the ceiling)
  • Battery-powered: Powered by a long-lasting battery. Monitoring on a low-powered radio (like PEPCO’s proprietary system) is a good option.
Local Law 157 in NYC outlines specific requirements for natural gas detector placement to ensure optimal effectiveness.

Location:
  • Height: Within 1 foot (12 inches) of the ceiling. This placement helps detectors sense natural gas, which tends to rise due to its lighter-than-air nature.
  • Distance from Appliances: At least 3 feet (36 inches) horizontally from any gas-burning appliance. This prevents false alarms triggered by normal appliance operation. However, the maximum distance cannot exceed 10 feet (120 inches) from the appliance. This ensures adequate coverage for potential leaks.
Additional Considerations:
  • Multiple Detectors: While not strictly mandated, consider installing additional detectors in larger residences or those with multiple gas appliances for enhanced coverage.
  • Existing Buildings: In situations where there’s no outlet within a foot of the ceiling (like kitchens or laundry rooms), battery-powered detectors are a good option. This avoids the disruption and cost of installing a new electrical outlet near the ceiling.
Compliance deadline is May 1, 2025. To comply with Local Law 157 and enhance safety in your residence, here’s a breakdown of the installation requirements for natural gas detectors:
  • Placement: Detectors must be installed within one foot of the ceiling and at least three feet, but no more than ten feet, from any gas-burning appliance.
Power Options: You have flexibility in how the detectors are powered:
  • Hardwired: Installed by a licensed electrician (recommended for new construction or renovations).
  • Plug-in: Connected to a constant power source (ideal for existing outlets near the ceiling).
  • Battery-powered: Powered by a long-lasting battery. Monitoring on a low-powered radio (like PEPCO’s proprietary system) is a good option (ideal for existing buildings without nearby outlets or to avoid unsightly cords in kitchens and laundry rooms). Note: This type of system provides additional benefits like near-instant notifications and location identification.
Installation:
  • Hardwired detectors require a licensed electrician. Battery-powered or plug-in detectors can be installed by building owners, maintenance personnel, or tenants.
Benefits of Local Law 157 include:
  • Provides early warning of potential gas leaks.
  • Reduces the risk of gas explosions and saves lives by alerting occupants to potential gas leaks.
  • Avoids costly and disruptive repairs from gas shut-off.
Potential penalties for non-compliance include:
  • Fines: The Department of Building (DOB) could levy fines for non-compliant buildings after the deadline of May 1, 2025.
  • Enforcement Action: The Department of Building (DOB) could take enforcement actions such as stop-work orders and/or building violation citations.
It is important to comply with Local Law 157 by May 1, 2025, to ensure the safety of residents and avoid potential consequences. Refer to these resources for the most up-to-date information regarding compliance and penalties for non-compliance.
New York State Senator Leroy Comrie introduced Senate Bill S3705, aiming to enhance public safety by mandating monitored natural gas detectors in all residences. This proposal comes in response to the concerning number of gas explosions – 51 incidents reported over the past 13 years in New York State.

What the Bill Proposed:
  • Installation of monitored natural gas detectors in all residences.
  • Sensors would eventually report leaks to the State (details on reporting specifics were likely outlined in the original bill text).
Current Status and Considerations:

Senator Comrie is currently working with stakeholders to refine the bill and ensure its effectiveness. Revisions are being made to align with recently updated safety standards from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL). These updated standards require notifications from gas detectors to be sent to a licensed and staffed central monitoring station. This central station would then be responsible for alerting the building occupants, emergency services (911), and the utility company for a coordinated response.
Benefits of monitored natural gas detectors include:
  • Faster response times to potential gas leaks compared to relying solely on resident detection.
  • Increased safety for occupants by ensuring timely alerts to gas emergencies.
  • Enhanced emergency response by building staff for monitored systems.
Owners must comply on or before May 1, 2025

Don't Wait - Get Started Today!

Use this simple form to send us an email, or call us at 631-940-1030.
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