Filing a Complaint Against Your Landlord in New York

Dealing with an unresponsive landlord or unresolved rental issue in New York can be stressful. Knowing how to file a complaint against your landlord is important for protecting your rights. This guide covers essential steps, required forms, and where to get official help if problems with your landlord persist.

When Can You File a Complaint Against Your Landlord?

In New York, renters may file a complaint if they face issues like:

• Unsafe or unhealthy living conditions (e.g., lack of heat, mold, pest infestations)
• Unlawful rent increases or security deposit disputes
• Harassment or illegal eviction threats
• Failure to make timely repairs required by law

Understanding Your Rights as a New York Renter

New York renters are protected under New York State Real Property Law, which covers habitability, lease requirements, and eviction procedures. If your landlord violates these laws, you have the right to seek assistance from official government agencies and tribunals.^[1]

Where to File: The Official Tribunal and Agencies

Most residential tenant-landlord complaints in New York City are handled by the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR). Across the state, courts and local public housing agencies may also assist, especially for code or eviction matters.

• DHCR Office of Rent Administration (for rent-regulated apartments and harassment complaints)
• NYC 311 for conditions like lack of heat or major repairs (NYC residents)
• Local code enforcement offices (for health and safety issues outside NYC)

Common Official Forms for Complaints

• Tenant Statement of Complaint(s) - Harassment (Form RA-60)
  When to use: If your landlord is harassing you (e.g., cutting off services, intimidation).
  Example: If your landlord threatens eviction after you ask for repairs, file this form with DHCR.
  View Harassment Complaint Form RA-60
• Tenant’s Application for a Rent Reduction based on Decreased Services (Form RA-81)
  When to use: If essential services promised in your lease are not being provided (e.g., no hot water or heat).
  Example: If your landlord ignores requests for heat repair in winter, submit RA-81 to DHCR.
  View Rent Reduction Complaint Form RA-81
• NYC Housing Maintenance Code Complaint (Heat, Hot Water, Maintenance)
  When to use: For urgent code violations in New York City apartments.
  Example: If you lack heat or see unsafe conditions, report via 311 Online Portal.

Make sure to read instructions for each form carefully and submit supporting documents (like photos, notices, or repair requests).

Steps to File a Complaint in New York

The procedure to file a renter complaint depends on where you live and the issue. Here's a step-by-step overview:

1. Try to Resolve the Issue Directly

• Document your issue (save emails, texts, photos of the problem)
• Send a dated written request for repairs or changes to your landlord

2. Submit the Right Complaint Form

• Choose the relevant DHCR or code complaint form as outlined above
• Fill out clearly with details of the problem, your address, and supporting evidence
• Mail or submit online, following the directions on the form

3. Follow Up and Prepare for Inspection or Hearing

• Once filed, you may be contacted for additional information or to schedule an inspection
• Keep all records and correspondence
• If a hearing is scheduled, bring evidence like photos, repair requests, and any communications

What Happens After You File?

The designated agency (like DHCR or city code enforcement) will review your complaint. If your problem relates to unsafe conditions, an inspector may visit your apartment. For rent disputes or harassment, an administrative review or hearing might be scheduled. Remedies can include an order to repair, rent reductions, or other enforcement actions.

FAQ: Renter Complaint Process in New York

1. What if my landlord retaliates after I file a complaint?
   Retaliation for making a lawful complaint (like eviction threats or service cuts) is illegal under New York law. Report any retaliation to DHCR or the local housing agency and keep detailed records.
2. Can I file a complaint anonymously?
   Most agencies require your contact information to process a formal complaint, but you can ask if details can be kept confidential. For urgent safety/code issues, NYC 311 allows some anonymous complaints.
3. Which agency should I contact if I live outside NYC?
   For non-rent stabilized units outside NYC, contact your local building or code enforcement office, or the regional DHCR office. Find local agencies on the New York State HCR directory.
4. What documents will strengthen my complaint?
   Photos of the issue, written repair requests, lease agreements, and any communication with the landlord provide helpful evidence.
5. How long does it take to resolve a complaint?
   Resolution time varies. Simple code complaints might be addressed in days, while others requiring hearings can take several weeks.

Key Takeaways

• New York renters can file official complaints using DHCR forms or local code agencies, depending on the issue
• Accurate documentation and written communication help support your case
• Retaliation for complaint filing is illegal — know your protections under the law

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• NY State DHCR - Rent Information (complaint forms, guidance, contact information)
• NYC 311 Online (for housing code violations and service requests)
• List of Local Housing Agencies in New York State
• NYC HPD Resources for Renters
• For legal guidance, visit NY Courts Help for Tenants

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1. New York State Real Property Law – Tenant Rights.
2. New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR).
3. NYC 311 – Housing Maintenance Complaints.
4. Tenant Statement of Complaint(s) - Form RA-60.
5. Application for Rent Reduction - Form RA-81.

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