Tenant Resources

Under federal law, the Uniform Relocation Act (“URA”) provides relocation aid for eligible renters who are displaced by federally-funded activities. The Build It Back Program helps households who must relocate because their landlords are receiving Build It Back construction or acquisition assistance.

Tenants who are eligible for URA assistance will receive a General Information Notice (GIN) from the Build It Back Program notifying them of their potential displacement. To qualify for assistance, tenants must be in good standing. Tenants should continue to pay rent and to meet all obligations as specified in your lease agreement.

Tenants may qualify for either Temporary Relocation Assistance or Permanent Displacement Assistance:

Temporary Relocation Assistance

Tenants who are temporarily relocated from their unit for a period of less than one year because of Build It Back construction may be eligible to receive Temporary Relocation Assistance. Landlord-applicants in Build It Back certify that they will pay the reasonable out-of-pocket expenses of any tenants that must relocate temporarily due to Build It Back construction.

If you would like to learn more about relocation benefits please contact Build It Back’s Relocation Assistance Staff by email at urainbox@recovery.nyc.gov. Please be sure to include your name, current address, and address of the property in the Build It Back Program.

Permanent Displacement Assistance

Tenants who are displaced for more than a year because of Build It Back construction or whose landlord is selling their property to Build It Back may be eligible for Permanent Displacement Assistance. Those who are found to be eligible for permanent displacement assistance will be provided (1) Relocation advisory services to select and lease up in a replacement dwelling; (2) Payment for eligible moving expenses; and (3) Replacement housing payments for 42 months of rental assistance. If you prefer, the rental assistance may be applied to purchase a replacement dwelling.

Additional Information

If you have received a General Information Notice or were required to move because of Build It Back construction or acquisition, please contact Build It Back’s Relocation Assistance Staff by email at urainbox@recovery.nyc.gov. Please be sure to include your name, your landlord’s name, and address of the property in the Build It Back Program. A representative will respond to your inquiry.

Build It Back Customer Service is available to answer questions Monday through Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM. Please call (212) 615-8329 or email us at housing@recovery.nyc.gov for more information.