Tenants should expect to live in safe, well maintained buildings that are:

     • Free from pests, leaks, mold, and other dangerous conditions.

     • Provided with basic services such as heat, hot water, cold water, and electricity.

     • Free from harassment by the owner and the owner’s employees.

Tenants who are in rent-stabilized units have additional rights. Find out if an apartment and/or building has been registered as rent-stabilized by calling HCR (Homes and Community Renewal) at 718-739-6400 or sending an email to rentinfo@nycshr.org.

Tenants have responsibilities to their building owners and other tenants:

     • Tenants may not damage the building, intentionally or through neglect.

     • Tenants are responsible for the actions of their guests.

     • Tenants must respond to annual owner inquiries related to window guards and lead-based paint, and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

     • Tenants must obey the legal terms of leases, pay rent on time, honor the rights of other tenants, and provide access for repairs

Download the ABCs of Housing flyer or go to the NYC website page on housing safety to learn more about:

  • your safety and living conditions 
  • landlord responsibilities
Safety and conditions flyer

ABCs of Housing 2021.pdf

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Last Reviewed: August 8, 2023