Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in New York

Illegal Sublet HELP!

We signed a lease with two girls, very nice they seemed. WE gave them 3300.00 which was first last and security. We moved in and upon move in, their friend told us that if ANYTHING happens, to contact her just below us or call the ladies we subleased from. We were told not to call the super directly. We understood and took posession of the apt. Just after moving in, a leak began in the kitchen with moldy water. After 6 or 7 more times, the ceiling is almost giving way. There is black mold in the kitchen and we have lost many food items due to the leaks. We cannot cook in there because the electric outlet is surrounded by water bubbled under the paint. For 4 weeks we could not use the kitchen. The super was contacted and management. NO ONE CAME. No action has been taken and we are forced now to leave. We have been sick ALL month since living here, don't think it is a coincidence. The mold and rancid water are horrific. The water was coming through the LIGHT fixture at one point. COMPLETELY dangerous. The girls say that they called the management co and the super and there is nothing that can be done. YEAH, RIGHT! Should we sue the girls? Smalll claims? Perhaps for the entire Feb rent?


Asked on 2/27/08, 10:28 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Steven Czik CZIK LAW PLLC

Re: Illegal Sublet HELP!

There are a number of things that can be done, but you need to retain your leverage by staying in the apt. If not completely physically, then at least keep your belongings there so that you maintain possession. This area of law is our specialty; however, we would need some more information before making a complete and proper determination. You are welcome to contact us for a free consultation.

Law Offices of

STEVEN J. CZIK, P.C.

101 Avenue of the Americas, 15th Floor

New York, New York 10013

212.413.4462

[email protected]

The information provided by The Law Offices of Steven J. Czik (LOSJC) is for general educational purposes only. There is no attorney-client relationship established by this communication and no privilege attaches to such communication. LOSJC is not taking and will not take any action on your behalf and will not be considered your attorney until both you and LOSJC have signed a written retainer agreement. There are strict deadlines, called statutes of limitation, within which claims or lawsuits must be filed. Therefore, if you desire the services of an attorney and decide not to retain LOSJC on terms acceptable to LOSJC, you are advised to immediately seek the services of another attorney.

Read more
Answered on 2/28/08, 12:37 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Landlord & Tenants questions and answers in New York