Cottage Elevator Safety Bills Becomes Law in North Carolina

Weston’s Law, named for the young boy who died when he became trapped between the elevator car and shaft at a vacation rental on North Carolina’s Outer Banks in July 2021, is now mandated in the state, with Governor Roy Cooper signing it into law on July 8, the Associated Press is among outlets to report. Landlords of vacation rentals are required to shrink the gap between the landing and car doors to no more than 4 in., starting October 1. This can be done by installing space guards on landing doors. Landlords are also required to ensure minimum force requirements for elevator car doors and gates, and upgrades must be documented with the state Insurance Department. While the law cannot reverse the tragedy that occurred, “it does mean better protection to prevent future tragedies,” Cooper said in a press release.