When you are renting, you have rights as a tenant. Landlords have a legal obligation to maintain decent living conditions on the properties they own. Whether you rent an apartment, restaurant space, warehouse, office, or any other type of dwelling, the landlord has many responsibilities surrounding it. If they are not being fulfilled, you as a tenant can be subject to injury or poor health conditions. Improper upkeep of a property could also lead to the tenant becoming the victim of a dangerous crime. It is important to know what rights you are entitled to when renting.
Properly Installed Locks
Landlords must have locks installed that comply with state laws and be sure they are in working order. If a tenant becomes the victim of a crime because of an insufficient locking system, the landlord can be held responsible. Peepholes are necessary for additional security as well.
Right to Privacy
A landlord cannot enter an apartment unless there is an emergency such as a fire, a prearranged repair or emergency repair must be done, or the landlord is showing the apartment to a prospective buyer or renter.
Additional Services Required by Landlord
- Maintaining electrical systems
- Keeping all stairways clear or debris and snow or ice
- Removing snow from roofs when necessary
- Installing handrails on stairs
- Providing mirrors on elevators
- Providing locking mailboxes
- Maintaining all appliances such as the refrigerator and stove
- Fixing all leaks
- Fixing all floor or ceiling damage
- Removing peeling lead paint
- Providing records of lead paint installation
- Prevention and removal of rodents
- Prevention and removal of insects
- Prevention and removal of toxins including mold
- Keeping all ventilation systems clear
- Providing hot water year-around
- Providing heat from October 1-May 31
- Keeping premises free of garbage
- Avoiding discrimination based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, disability or national origin
Landlords additionally cannot evict a tenant without sufficient evidence that they have violated a lease agreement or any local housing codes or laws. If you or someone you know have been a victim of a landlord’s improper maintaining or a property or failure to follow specific rules, contact an experienced NY premises liability attorney today.