Habitability refers to the adequacy of an environment for human living. Where housing is concerned, there are generally local ordinances which define habitability. If a residence complies with those laws it is said to be habitable. In extreme environments, such as space exploration, habitability must take into account psychological and social stressors, due to the harsh nature of the environment. Habitability in law Habitability is the conformance of a residence or abode to the implied warranty of habitability. A residence that complies is said to be habitable. It is an implied warranty or contract, meaning it does not have to be an express contract, covenant, or provision of a contract. There was no implied warranty of habitability for tenants at common law and the legal doctrine has since developed in many jurisdictions through housing laws and regulations. Habitability is a common law doctrine that is largely synonymous with tenantability. In Architecture, the term habitability is understood to be an umbrella term for the suitability and value of a built habitat for its inhabitants in a specific environment over time. In order to be habitable, such housing usually: must provide shelter, with working locks must be heated in the winter months (typically between October 1 and May 31 in the Northeastern United States) must not be infested with vermin, roaches, termites, or mold requires the landlord to stop other tenants from making too much noise (as measured by the decibel scale), second-hand smoke, or from selling narcotics must provide potable water each jurisdiction may have various rules. New York law Some states, such as New York, have given additional statutory protections in addition to those created by caselaw. These statutes include: Lobby attendant service by a concierge or landlord Elevator mirrors Smoke detectors Window guards Intercoms and self-locking doors Protection from lead paint Consequences Violation of the warranty of habitability results in constructive eviction, whereby the landlord or lessor has, in effect, evicted the tenant or lessee. The tenant may remedy the problem, or complain to local government authorities for remedies. See also Real property Real estate Implied warranty of habitability Habitability in extreme environments Human Factors and habitability are important topics for working and living spaces. For space exploration, they are vital for mission success. One of the critical characteristics for living and working in extreme environments the dependency on the habitat, its technological capability as well as the sociospatial