New York tenants say landlord failing to maintain safe conditions

Residents of a New York apartment building are at odds over recent renovations. The massive construction project has been going on for the better part of a year since its owner, the Brodsky Organization, assumed new leadership. While some applaud the changes in store, others feel the construction itself is creating more of a hazard than original condition of the building. They are accusing the new management of failing to maintain safe conditions.

The renovations include installing new storage facilities, replacing the old boiler system and overhauling the common areas in the building. More importantly, the five elevators are receiving upgrades. Those elevators have been the subject of many official tenant complaints, and the new management has instituted a rigorous maintenance plan that includes weekly inspections.

Nevertheless, about one third of the tenants of the building have joined together in a union to protest the ongoing construction. They also enlisted the help of a city council member. The tenants believe the construction has made conditions in the building dangerous. The council member agrees, noting that there was no tenant protection plan in place when the units were being renovated and the halls were being cut, and that apparently no permits were issued for some of the work.

If a tenant in New York is injured because of a hazard in an apartment building, the landlord may be held responsible for failing to maintain safe conditions. While construction and renovation may be a nuisance, it may sometimes be necessary to make improvements. However, if the construction itself becomes a danger that causes injury, tenants may consult an attorney who will advise them what steps to take to pursue a personal injury claim.

Source: nypress.com, “Battle Over Construction On 71st St.”, Madeleine Thompson, July 15, 2016