Within the past ten years, the NYC fire dept. adopted new fire procedures based on the IFC, or International Fire Code.
This includes heightened protections for incidents where houses on fire cause surrounding homes to catch on fire as well. This includes new sprinkler systems and non combustable materials for decks that run between houses.
IPE hardwood is the perfect deck wood for this new era of precaution as it is made of Ironwood, which is resistant to fire, moisture, insects and can be used without preservatives or ground treatments. It is rated in the same class as steel and concrete.
IPE hardwood is also a cost-saver, as the material allows for longer lasting decks.
Check out the video below for info on maintaining an IPE deck.