Resources for immigrants in New York

Landlords of multiple-dwelling buildings are required to provide heat for their tenants from the months of October through May. Between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., if the temperature outside plunges below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, indoor temperatures must be maintained a…

Landlords are required to keep the property in “good repair”. Good repair means that the appliances and infrastructure must be in safe working condition. Public areas of the building are also covered by the Warranty of Habitability, meaning that they must be c…

Before filing a complaint with the city, contact your landlord or building manager to report the issue. Keep records of your communication, such as texts, calls or call logs. Give them a reasonable amount of time to address the problem.

If your landlord fails to provide essential services, you can file a case in Housing Court to hold them accountable. You may be eligible for rent reductions or other damages. · For issues such as lack of heat, hot water, or other essential services, as well as…

By law, your landlord should disclose any prior flood damage to the leased place. Ask the landlord to confirm in writing when the apartment will be inspected and repaired. Landlords are responsible for maintaining safe housing conditions and addressing buildin…

Your landlord cannot force you out without going through the court. It is illegal for a landlord to: · Change your locks · Shut off your heat, water, or electricity · Remove your belongings from your home · Threaten, harass, or pressure you to leave · Only a c…

…Housing providers may only reach out to your current or previous landlord to check for evidence of serious lease violations. These can include things like property damage, performing illegal activities, having unauthorized pets or even noise violations . · Eve…

If a landlord tries to reject you based on your credit report, they must first tell you why and give you 14 days to respond and/or provide additional documents that either prove that there were errors in the credit report or that your financial struggles were …

Under Warranty of Habitability, all landlords must maintain a unit that is deemed livable and safe. This includes free of roaches, having hot water, heat, fire escape, ventilation, electricity, a good roof, and other requirements. This requirements are for ins…

At the start of a lease agreement, landlords may collect a security deposit that cannot exceed one month’s rent. The deposit serves as a guarantee for the landlord to cover unpaid rent or repairs for any damage to the unit during the tenancy. · In New York Cit…

If you rent, notify your landlord about the damage right away and ask what steps they are taking to make repairs. If they delay or refuse, call 311 to request a Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) inspection. If violations are found, HPD may require the…

…following this form. Housing and Community Renewal may require your landlord to decrease your rent and give you a refund if they overcharged you.

Landlords are required to give you the option to renew your lease every year or two years. · If a landlord fails to offer a renewal, tenants can file a complaint with the Office of Rent Administration and seek assistance from the Tenant Support Unit. · If you …