ATTENTION APARTMENT RENTERS! (All Boroughs)
Reply to: comm-677223379@craigslist.org
Date: 2008-05-12, 5:33AM EDT
Renters--Use caution and arm yourself with knowledge and facts before committing yourself to a lease.It seems that landlords have tenants over a barrel,but the truth is,many break the laws when it comes to renting.For instance,ALL apartments for rent are to each have a SEPARATE gas/electricity meter.There is no "sharing" of gas and electricity between apartments,according to the NYC Department of Buildings.Landlords have six months to make corrections or be fined stiff penalties, which includes a minimum of $100 per day for the infraction.Make sure you ask about the meter and its location before signing a lease.Here's a list of other things that make an apartment in NYC rentable--and legal.
- Don't fall for the brokers's claim that an apartment is an "owner's apartment." Big deal.This apartment was fixed up and occupied by the landlord at one time,and that's all. It's only legal for the OWNER to occupy--not a paying tenant. An apartment MUST be inspected for safety and compliance of City laws and codes by the NYC Dept.of Buildings to be legally rentable.
- If there are fire extinguishers,observe the date of the last inspection by the fire dept.It should not be 10 years ago.It should be inspected every 6 months to one year,with the inspection date noted on the tag.
- Don't let the landlord dictate to you,the tenant,that you must lay out money for any repairs the LL is reponsible for,then take it off the rent.Bull.The LL must make all repairs and pay for it him/herself directly.
- If you are considering renting within a private house and on the upper floors,check out if there are any fire escapes.You have a legal right to fire exits in case of emergency.You are also entitled to window guards,be it the first floor or twentieth, especially when there are children 10 years old and younger living with you. You DO NOT pay for these window guards--the LL does.You also have the right to demand a signed legal statement from the LL declaring that the paint is lead-free which is in accordance with NYC law. This is for the protection of young and growing children.This written and signed declaration by the LL is legal and binding in a court of law.
- If the ad for an apartment says "electricity included" or "free electricity"--chances are good that you will be sharing the energy and the cost for it is in the rent.More often than not,the cost is very high even if you use small amounts of electricity or gas.
- Before you put your name to paper,check with the NYC Department of Buildings website to verify that a building or house is legal and safe for you and your family to reside in.Many are found to be illegal,with tenants immediately evicted by the city for safety's sake.These poor souls end up homeless or in shelters.Don't take the LL or broker's word for it.
- Before you rent from anyone,Google the management's name or private owner for any complaints against them.Do the same for the real estate if you use one and the movers. Suggestion: type in "consumer complaints against John Doe Management"
- It's a good idea to sign just a one-year lease instead of two at first. In case you want to leave after one year, you won't be tied to an apartment you don't want to be in.
-If you have found that you have unknowingly rented an illegal apartment, consult a lawyer and the Dept. of Buildings. You may be able to get your security deposit returned when you move out. Illegally rented apartments are unsafe for you and your family. Make arrangements to leave as soon as possible.
Following these tips will help you, the prospective tenant,be safe instead of sorry. Let's help keep New York as safe as possible for everyone who lives here.
- Location: All Boroughs
- it's NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests
PostingID: 677223379
