Ideally, all landlords would treat their tenants with the respect and dignity they deserve, and always be mindful of tenants’ rights. However, some landlords engage in harassment against their tenants, which can make life more difficult and potentially impinge on a tenant’s legal rights. But what exactly is landlord harassment, and what can you do about it if it happens to you?
What is Landlord Harassment?
Put simply, landlord harassment is any behavior undertaken by a landlord that intentionally makes tenants more uncomfortable, typically with the intent of forcing a tenant to vacate their apartment. This is often done in cases where landlords want to get rid of an undesirable tenant without going through the process of formally evicting them, particularly if the tenant lives in a rent-controlled or rent-stabilized apartment. Notably, all forms of landlord harassment are illegal in New York, but that does not stop landlords from engaging in this behavior.
What Does Landlord Harassment Look Like?
Landlord harassment can take a variety of forms, from minor annoyances to potentially criminal behavior. These include, but are not limited to:
- Refusing to perform regular maintenance or repair broken fixtures;
- Failing to address infestations of rodents or insects;
- Intentionally playing loud noise or introducing bad smells around the apartment;
- Entering into the apartment without good reason, or without giving appropriate notice;
- Changing the lock on a tenant while they are out of the apartment;
- Making constant phone calls or sending constant messages, especially late at night;
- Cutting off utilities like water, electricity or heat without warning;
- Making threats of violence, or engaging in physical assault.
What Are the Possible Consequences of Landlord Harassment?
When landlords engage in this kind of harassing behavior, it can make life incredibly difficult for tenants, to the point where it can make their apartments essentially unlivable. When this happens, they may be forced to move out and find alternative living arrangements, even while they still have their name on the lease or have not relinquished their right to possession. This can be emotionally exhausting and financially ruinous, and in some cases may even put them at increased risk of physical harm.
What Should You Do?
If you or someone you love has been the victim of landlord harassment, you should speak to a lawyer with experience handling landlord-tenant disputes. They can help you review your potential legal options, and ensure your rights are protected. The sooner you call, the sooner they can get to work for you.
If you are in a dispute with your landlord and want to know more about protecting yourself, do not wait until it is too late. You should seek advice from an attorney experienced in handling landlord-tenant disputes, who can advise you on your rights and help you avoid the risk of eviction. Contact the skilled landlord-tenant attorneys at Hobson-Williams, P.C. Contact us online, toll-free (866) 825-1529 or (718) 210-4744 to discuss your rights and the solutions available to you.
