The DOB launched the Living Safely campaign so that tenants and homeowners will be informed of the perils of illegal housings and substandard conditions.
If you are looking to rent an apartment, you should first ensure that the building can be legally occupied as offered by the owners. Do your due diligence and research the building’s history including violations, penalties and permits. Make sure that safety measures for the building are in place. The DOB’s Building Information System or BIS, is a good place to start.
Here are some things to look for when looking at a rental space:
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The apartment or room has fire and carbon monoxide detectors.
- The apartment or room has 2 means of egress or 2 ways to get out in case of fire.
- The apartment has ample natural light as well as ventilation, e.g. all bedrooms must have a window.
- The apartment or room has its own power supply, meaning the power isn’t provided by an extension cord.
- The apartment or room doesn’t need to be locked by a padlock.
Keep in mind that there are some conditions in your residence that may endanger the lives of you or your family. It is important that you are aware of these conditions, make sure to review the department’s safety tips and ensure the safety of your apartment.
In case there are physical conditions in the building that is not safe or in good repair then the tenants in privately owned buildings can notify the owner or building manager, if after a verbal notice the owner did not take action then a written notice maybe sent through certified mail with a return receipt. It is imperative that these documents be kept so that if the owner doesn’t take any action, then the tenant can file a complaint with the city. If the building in question is rent-stabilized or rent-controlled apartment, then the filing will be done with the State.
If proven, the City can instantly vacate unsafe illegal apartments or rooms. Owners can be fined up to $25,000 and face other penalties, depending on the severity. To know more about these illegal dwellings or if you want to request an inspection, you can call 311.