Window Screen Repair in NYC: Whose Job Is It, and How to Get It Done
Why window screens matter in NYC
Come summer, every New Yorker wants the windows open - it's the cheapest air conditioning in the city. A good screen keeps the breeze coming in and the bugs, soot, and the occasional curious pigeon out. A torn or missing screen means choosing between fresh air and a living room full of mosquitoes. In an Upper East Side walk-up or a high-floor co-op, intact screens are part of everyday comfort and safety.
Whose job is it - tenant or landlord?
Here's the part that trips people up: in most NYC rentals, keeping window screens in good shape falls to the tenant, not the landlord. Screens are generally treated as a tenant-maintained item rather than something the building must repair. That said, it always pays to check your lease - some buildings and management companies do handle screens, especially in larger or luxury properties.
One safety note that's separate from bug screens: NYC law requires landlords to install window guards in any apartment where a child 10 or younger lives. Window guards are a child-safety device, not the same as a screen - if you have young kids, that one is on the landlord.
How to ask your landlord or management - nicely
If you'd rather your landlord or management company handle it, just ask. A friendly, specific request goes a long way:
"Hi - the screen in my living room window is torn and bugs are getting in. Would the building be able to repair or replace it? If it's on me, no problem - just let me know. Thanks!"
Worst case, they say it's your responsibility - and then you've got a couple of easy options.
Fix it yourself, or bring it to us
Re-screening a window is one of the most satisfying small repairs there is. You need three things: a screen frame (or a frame kit if you're building one from scratch), screen mesh (fiberglass for most windows; aluminum or pet-resistant for tougher spots), and spline - the rubber cord that locks the mesh into the frame - plus a spline roller to press it in. We stock all of it on the shelf.
Not in the mood to DIY? Bring the screen to us and we'll repair it for you, same day. We've been doing it on 1st Ave since 1986.