How We Can Help You

We are here to help you deal with a variety of tricky situations that may arise while renting, including:

Construction Concerns
Contractors working in occupied buildings must take steps to minimize dust and noise, maintain safe exits and limit any disruptions to essential services, among other protections. DOB’s Office of the Tenant Advocate can help if contractors are not following the Tenant Protection Plan or if you have questions or concerns about construction.

Construction Harassment
Unfortunately, a common tactic used by unscrupulous landlords is to let the living conditions of their buildings deteriorate, then doing noisy, messy construction in an attempt to force out tenants who pay a lower rent than the landlord would desire. This is textbook tenant harassment, and while it happens citywide, it is most likely to occur in neighborhoods where rents are rising quickly due to the changing nature of the neighborhood. Construction harassment is illegal, and you can find information on your rights and your landlord’s responsibilities around construction.

Gas or Elevator Out of Service
Your landlord is required to maintain gas connections and to keep your elevator in working order. If they have been shut off there may be a dangerous condition they need to correct immediately.

Vacate Orders
If DOB has issued a Vacate or Partial Vacate Order, then all or some of your building has been deemed too dangerous to occupy. It is up to your landlord to fix those conditions immediately, and other help is available to you to find new accommodations.

Additional Assistance

Buildings After Hours
Join us during Buildings After Hours for in-person information sessions with our plan examiners, inspectors, and staff. The free weekly sessions happen every Tuesday from 4:00pm – 7:00pm in each borough office. Get answers to questions and the information you need to plan a renovation or construction project, clear a property fine, obtain property records, or get help using our online resources like the Buildings Information System (BIS) and DOB NOW. Read the Buildings After Hours service notice for more information.