Media & Publications - Sidrane, Schwartz-Sidrane, Perinbasekar & Littman LLP

New Renewal Lease Form from DHCR (7/2022) & Electronic Signatures

By Michael Littman, Partner -- Published July 12, 2022

The New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (“DHCR”) has issued a new Renewal Lease form (Form RTP-8 (7/22)) pursuant to RGB Order #53.

Pet Peeves: Dealing with Tenants’ Nuisance Pets and Responding to Requests for Assistance Animals

By Michael Littman, Partner -- Published July 7, 2022

On June 14, 2022, Michael Littman presented a Webinar: Pet Peeves: Dealing with Tenants’ Nuisance Pets and Responding to Requests for Assistance Animals

RGB Adopts New Rent Increases (10/1/22 – 9/30/23)

By Michael Littman, Partner -- Published June 22, 2022

On June 21, 2022, the Rent Guidelines Board (RGB) approved new rent increases as follows:

Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP): Rents, Leases and DHCR Registrations

By Michael Littman, Partner -- Published May 16, 2022

The New York State Division of Housing & Community Renewal (“DHCR”) has issued guidance to Landlords who have received ERAP funds.

Make an Impact! Weigh in on Construction Costs with DHCR

By Michael Littman, Partner -- Published January 5, 2022

DHCR has recently issued Update Number 1 to Operational Bulletin 2021-1 (dated 1/4/22) – “Reasonable Cost Schedule”.

Looking to Remove your Building from Rent Stabilization? Substantial Rehabilitation Pitfalls

By Arun Perinbasekar, Partner -- Published November 5, 2021

In the past few years the DHCR has made the requirements for substantial rehabilitation more difficult. Prior to the application process Owners should be aware that in order to succeed on a claim of substantial rehabilitation they must establish a building was substantially deteriorated prior to the renovation (this is presumed if the building is 80% or more vacant); that 75% of all building wide systems must be fully replaced; that all surfaces in common areas (walls, ceilings and floors) must be replaced; and that the renovation work be full compliance with law and DOB requirements. The Owner needs to substantiate these requirements through documentary evidence and affidavits of professional engineers and architects.

Air Conditioning Surcharge Update

By Michael Littman, Partner -- Published October 21, 2021

The DHCR has updated the Thirty Sixth Annual Update of Section B of Supplement No. 1 to Operational Bulletin 84-4 for the Air Conditioning Surcharge.

Landlord Rental Assistance Program (LRAP)

By Miles F. Altarac -- Published October 8, 2021

The New York State Landlord Rental Assistance Program (LRAP) is now open and accepting applications. This program provides rental assistance for landlords whose tenants are unwilling to apply for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP), including where the tenant has left the rental property.

Reduce or Waive Property Tax Interest

By Michael Littman, Partner -- Published October 7, 2021

Property Tax Interest Abatement Program

If you have unpaid New York City property taxes and you were impacted by COVID-19, the Property Tax Interest Abatement Program may be able to help.

ERAP funds now expanded to middle-income renters

By Michael Littman, Partner -- Published October 1, 2021

Governor Kathy Hochul has now expanded the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) to middle-income renters previously ineligible for rental assistance.