Assembly approves bill letting tenants install certain appliances if they meet code and have written consent

The Assembly passed legislation to restrict landlords from denying residential tenants the right to install certain appliances and fixtures, so long as the items comply with applicable building codes and the tenant first obtains written consent from the landlord.

Sponsor Miss Rosenthal said the measure (Assembly No. 1865-A, calendar 88) would "prohibit a landlord from restricting a residential tenant from installing appliances or fixtures if they comply with applicable building codes, and the tenant has sought and obtained written consent from the landlord." The bill passed the Assembly by a recorded tally of "Ayes, 95; Nos, 50." It takes effect immediately under the bill's language.

Supporters framed the bill as a narrow consumer-protection measure for tenants who want to replace poorly functioning or inefficient appliances without creating additional landlord expense. Miss Rosenthal described typical examples: sometimes a…