Finding appropriate and affordable housing in New York can be a difficult thing to do. Real estate in the city and the surrounding areas can come with complications, and due to the age of many of these buildings, safety can be a concern as well. As a tenant or potential renter, you may find it beneficial to understand your right to safety.

There are many issues, particularly in older buildings, that can threaten your safety and health. Some of these may include the presence of lead paint, asbestos and more. You do not have to simply put up with these hazards, but your landlord has the responsibility of addressing these issues. Many tenants find it beneficial to seek guidance regarding the protection of their rights when dealing with these complex matters.

What can you expect regarding your safety?

Landlords have certain responsibilities to those who live in their buildings. In addition to removal of lead paint and other matters, there are certain things tenants have the right to expect. Some of these include the following:

• Adherence to current safety codes
• Removal or containment of dangerous materials
• Addressing criminal activity on the premises
• Provision of locks, smoke detectors and more

As a tenant, you have the right to speak up when there is a problem or threat to your personal safety. Some of the things you can do include the following:

• Ask questions about the age and condition of the building
• Understand crime statistics in the area or in the building itself
• Ask about safety measures, such as new locks, smoke detectors and more

If you receive injury, become sick or experience issues with your landlord, you deserve a complete explanation of your legal options and grounds for potential compensation. You do not have to suffer alone, but you can take steps to protect your interests.

Where should you start? 

As a tenant, you might be unsure of where to start, or your landlord may have told you there is nothing he or she can do about your concerns. At this point, a smart course of action is to seek guidance as soon as possible.

Reaching out for help is a good place to start. This step can provide you with a complete understanding of your legal options and explanation of how you can move forward with an appropriate course of action. You have rights as a tenant, including the right to a reasonable expectation of safety.