One of the many rights of a resident is free to access their apartment. They should be entitled to exclusive possession of the space and the ability to enjoy the place to which they inhabit. In many instances that this right is not met, a course of action should be taken.
One concern that we have encountered is a tenant’s complaint of a new faulty fob system that prevents them from going in and out of the apartment especially if the weather is not good. Although the concern has already been raised to the landlord, no solution has been provided to this date.
According to experts, the first step that the tenants should take if the landlord continues to remain unresponsive is to get in touch with 311 and relay the situation. They can also contact the local Housing Preservation and Development department. The issue should be addressed immediately especially if there are senior citizens and little kids in the premise because of the danger it proposes. On a tenant’s perspective, it can’t help to deem this action extreme or exaggerated. However, bear in mind the rights that are being violated and the safety this whole scenario is compromising.
Tenants can also research and get in touch with the fob system’s manufacturer to inquire what can be done in times of emergency. If the fob system is really faulty and cannot be helped, other alternatives that the apartment can initiate is to place security personnel posted on the door or leave an alternative door open, to which they would have to relay to every tenant the location of and how to access it in times of emergency.
If after all the effort and the landlord remains uncooperative, it would be better to round the rest of the tenants and take the circumstances to housing court. After all, there is strength in numbers. A Housing Part action against the landlord can be filed in the housing court and have a court order released, prompting for the landlord to provide a safe access point to the building 24/7. Doing this will render you a day in court within 7 to 10 days of filing. Always bear in mind your rights as a tenant. Paying for rent means that you are eligible for a comfortable place to dwell and rest in.