This bill mandates that all qualified residential buildings, defined as structures with three or more stories and two or more dwelling units, must install fire barriers with a fire-resistance rating of at least three hours in common attic areas. The purpose of this requirement is to mitigate the risk of fire spreading quickly through open, unprotected attic spaces, thereby enhancing the safety of residents and firefighters. The bill stipulates that an application for a construction permit for new buildings cannot be deemed complete without including provisions for these fire barriers, and existing buildings must comply within 180 days of the adoption of the necessary regulations.

The Commissioner of Community Affairs is tasked with promulgating rules and regulations to implement these fire barrier requirements within six months following the bill's effective date. Additionally, the bill integrates these requirements into the Hotel and Multiple Dwelling Law, ensuring that qualified residential buildings are subject to inspections for compliance. This legislative measure aims to provide residents with more time to evacuate during a fire and to reduce the overall damage caused by such incidents.