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Writer's pictureAdam Glassman

New York’s Complicated Landlord Problem


New York has a complicated problem with its landlords. On the one hand, tenants argue that many of these landlords are completely negligent, forcing people to live in unsafe, unhygienic, and overpriced spaces. These tenants also argue that landlords should not be able to evict them during the pandemic. On the other hand, the landlords themselves are begging the city to allow them to evict tenants, as they say the COVID-19 eviction plan is ruining them financially. So, who is right? What is New York going to do about this issue?


One thing is for sure: If you are dealing with a negligent landlord in New York, you have every right to take legal action. Team up with a qualified lawyer in New York, and you can pursue justice in an effective manner. Our experienced attorneys have dealt with many of these kinds of cases before.


What Tenants in New York are Dealing With Today


Filmmaker Jeff Seal recently debuted a new docuseries on YouTube that illustrates just what tenants in New York are dealing with. Seal has looked into a number of issues, including lack of heat, water leaks, pests, and others. One of the most intriguing details explored by this docuseries was the fact that many tenants do not even know who really owns their buildings. Many landlords set up LLCs that allow them to hide their true identity and escape many consequences for their negligence. When tenants try to reach someone for help, they often simply get an answering machine.


One Particularly Bad Case


As bad as things are, some tenants are successfully taking legal action against those responsible. For example, a group of tenants in Queens recently filed a lawsuit against their landlord for allowing the building to descend into the worst kind of mess. Garbage was being dumped in the entryway of the building, attracting mice, rats, and insects. The landlord was also accused of not providing heat or hot water to the building. In total, the landlord was charged with over 215 violations in the lawsuit.


The Other Side of the Story


On the other side of the equation, landlords are also fighting their own battles in New York’s legal system. New York’s statewide ban on evictions means that tenants basically do not have to pay rent as long as they fill out a “hardship declaration” form. Many landlords are not particularly wealthy individuals, and they may be dealing with mortgage payments and other commitments. When someone decides to stop paying rent, it can lead to serious financial issues for New York landlords. This illustrates the complex, multi-faceted nature of New York’s rental problem.


Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today


If you have been searching the New York area for a qualified, experienced attorney who can help you with this matter, look no further than The Glassman Law Group. If you are dealing with a negligent landlord, we can help you pursue justice. Tenants deserve to be treated fairly, especially during an economic and health crisis. Reach out today and book your consultation.

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