New York Landlord Negligence Lawyer

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Sameer Chopra is a founding partner at our firm and a successful trial lawyer with 17 years of experience standing up to large corporations, government entities, and wealthy landlords on behalf of injured individuals. He is a true New Yorker and recognized as one of the Nation’s Top One Percent of attorneys by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.

He was recognized as a Super Lawyer Rising Star from 2017-2019 and then became a Super Lawyer from 2020 to present. He was also recognized as the 2021 Attorney of the Year by Top 100 Lawyers and was selected by Top Attorneys in North America as a distinguished Exclusive Presidents Circle Attorney for his continued excellence within the legal community. Sameer has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts, including significant verdicts against the City of New York and/or their affiliated agencies, and independent insurance carriers.

Content Last Updated: November 10, 2025

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Unfortunately, unsafe living conditions caused by negligent landlords are common in New York City. From mold and pest infestations to broken heating systems in winter, these problems threaten tenants’ health and safety every day. Tenants have legal rights, landlords have legal duties, and a New York landlord negligence lawyer can hold property owners accountable when those duties are ignored.

Personal injury and housing laws in New York are complex, and many tenants don’t know where to turn for help. Some may fear retaliation if they complain, while others simply feel overwhelmed by the thought of taking legal action. That’s where Chopra & Nocerino step in. With decades of experience, we know how to cut through the confusion and help tenants assert their rights. If you or a loved one is struggling with hazardous conditions, reach out using our online form or call (855) NYC-HURT today.

Why Hire Chopra & Nocerino for Your Landlord Negligence Case in NYC?

At Chopra & Nocerino, we bring over 20 years of experience fighting for tenants harmed by careless landlords. As trusted premises liability lawyers, we combine tough advocacy with compassion for clients facing dangerous living environments.

Our team has been recognized by Super Lawyers, with backgrounds spanning complex injury litigation and tenant protection. Each attorney brings unique experience but shares a commitment to treating clients like family, listening to your story, and explaining your rights clearly.

That dedication shows in our record of significant verdicts and settlements for injured New Yorkers, holding negligent landlords, management companies, and insurers accountable.

$1.45 Million – Awarded to our client, a 25-year-old woman, who suffered neck injuries when a bathroom ceiling collapsed on her in Queens, NY. The settlement was reached in Kings County Supreme Court.
$1.8 Million – Awarded to our client who slipped on a wet floor on private property. The floor was just mopped, and adequate signage was not visible to alert individuals of the slippery surface.
$1.2 Million – Awarded to our client, a 55-year old woman, tripped and fell on a raised saddle that existed between her kitchen and hallway within her own apartment. She suffered fractures to her ankle that required multiple surgeries.
$850,000 – Awarded to our client, who slipped and fell while exiting an elevator. This led to lumbar spine surgery and right knee surgery.

Areas We Serve

Each New York community faces unique challenges, and our local knowledge allows us to tailor strategies to the specific conditions tenants encounter in their neighborhoods.

We serve communities across New York, regularly advocating for tenants in:

“Everything about this lawyer’s office is supreme. Their location is easy to get to. The staff is very professional. The lawyers are dedicated to you personally and take all their cases seriously. They went above and beyond for me. I am completely and totally happy to have them and totally satisfied with the result. They are highly recommended.”

– Elton Shehu

What Are My Rights as a Tenant in New York if My Landlord Neglects Repairs?

Every tenant deserves a safe, livable home. When a landlord fails to address dangerous conditions, a tenant rights lawyer in New York can help tenants enforce their rights and hold irresponsible property owners accountable. Many renters don’t realize how extensive their legal protections are until they speak with an attorney.

Unsafe Living Conditions and the Warranty of Habitability

Under New York law, the warranty of habitability guarantees tenants the right to a safe and sanitary home. This includes working heat in winter, functional plumbing, secure door locks, and freedom from health hazards such as mold or infestations. A landlord cannot legally rent an apartment which violates these standards.

In practice, however, many tenants are forced to live with leaks, electrical issues, or pest infestations because their landlords delay or ignore repair requests. Knowing the law gives tenants power. They do not have to accept these conditions as just part of renting in New York.

Tenant Protections Against Landlord Retaliation in New York

One of tenants’ biggest fears is that speaking up will worsen things. Landlords sometimes try to intimidate tenants who report substandard conditions, but New York law protects tenants from retaliation. This means a landlord cannot legally respond to complaints by raising rent, cutting off services, or pursuing eviction.

Examples of retaliation include sudden eviction notices after a tenant calls the housing department, or unexplained utility shutoffs after repeated repair requests. If retaliation occurs, tenants may have grounds for legal action in addition to their negligence claims. Having legal representation ensures landlords cannot get away with such tactics.

What Damages Can You Claim in a Landlord Negligence Lawsuit in New York?

Landlord negligence can cause serious financial and emotional harm. A landlord negligence attorney in New York can help you pursue compensatory damages, including economic losses and non-economic harms.

Examples of common damages include:

Medical bills: Treatment costs for bodily injury, such as broken bones, soft tissue damage, or respiratory issues caused by hazardous housing.
Lost wages: Income lost when dangerous conditions or health complications make you miss work.
Relocation expenses: Moving costs and deposits if your apartment becomes uninhabitable.
Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional toll of living in unsafe or unhealthy conditions.
Property damage: Replacement or repair costs if personal belongings are ruined by leaks, infestations, or structural hazards.

The average settlement amount in New York depends on factors like the severity of harm, medical costs, and the disruption caused by hazardous housing. Every case is unique, which makes experienced counsel essential to ensure no loss is overlooked. At Chopra & Nocerino, we understand how important full recovery is for tenants who have already endured unsafe housing.

Can I Sue My Landlord for Negligence in New York?

Tenants can bring a claim in New York if a landlord’s negligence causes injury, illness, or property damage. Landlords are legally required to maintain safe, livable premises, and tenants can hold them accountable when they fail in that responsibility.

Many renters wonder if they have a case, but if unsafe conditions caused health problems, property damage, or financial loss, you likely have grounds to sue. An experienced landlord liability lawyer in New York can confirm your options and explain the best path forward, giving you the confidence that your rights are protected.

What If I Signed a Lease Waiver?

Some landlords attempt to use lease waivers to shield themselves from liability. However, under New York’s warranty of habitability, any clause that tries to waive or reduce a landlord’s responsibility for safe and livable housing is void. A lease provision stating the tenant accepts property as-is does not give landlords a free pass to ignore dangerous conditions. You still have rights, regardless of what your lease says.

Can I Sue My Landlord For Injuries Caused By Guests Or Visitors?

If a landlord is aware of a hazardous condition—such as a dangerous tenant, visitor, or pet—and fails to address it, they may be held liable for any resulting injuries. For instance, a landlord who ignores complaints about aggressive dogs could share responsibility if a tenant or guest is attacked. Similarly, landlords who disregard repeated reports of violent behavior or fail to maintain adequate building security may also face liability. In these situations, legal action helps ensure negligent landlords are held accountable and that tenants receive the protection and compensation they deserve.

Can I Sue a Management Company or Co-Op Board in New York?

Management companies and co-op boards may be held liable when they control building safety, repairs, or essential services. In New York, the warranty of habitability applies even when housing is overseen by these entities, meaning tenants and shareholders cannot be forced to accept unsafe conditions. While responsibilities in co-ops or management agreements may be divided, the entity in charge of addressing hazards may still be accountable if neglect causes harm.

How Our New York Landlord Negligence Lawyers Fight for Tenants

When landlords fail to keep housing safe, tenants face health risks, financial strain, and constant stress. At Chopra & Nocerino, our role as New York landlord negligence lawyers is to take on that burden, holding landlords and management companies accountable while allowing tenants to focus on recovery and stability. This is at the heart of what a personal injury lawyer does, combining legal strategy with real advocacy.

Here’s how we help tenants:

Investigating unsafe conditions: Reviewing housing code violations, repair requests, inspection reports, and complaints to uncover patterns of neglect.
Building strong evidence: Gathering photos, medical records, and witness statements to prove how dangerous conditions caused harm.
Negotiating for results: Taking on landlords, management companies, and insurers to demand fair compensation, without unnecessary delays.
Filing and litigating claims: When landlords refuse to take responsibility, we bring claims in court and represent tenants at every hearing or trial.
Guiding tenants through obstacles: From retaliation concerns to housing court procedures, we provide steady advice and advocacy at every step.

FAQs About Landlord Negligence in New York

Can I Withhold Rent if My Landlord Fails To Make Repairs?

Tenants in New York have legal protections when a landlord fails to make necessary repairs, but the process isn’t as simple as just stopping rent payments. Depending on the situation, you may be able to pursue a rent abatement, start an HP action to compel repairs, or apply for relief if you are rent-regulated. The right approach depends on your circumstances, which is why it’s important to document hazardous conditions, notify your landlord in writing, and consult a lawyer who can guide you through the proper legal steps.

Does Renters Insurance Cover Landlord Negligence Injuries?

Coverage depends on the policy. Renters insurance typically protects personal belongings, while claims for landlord-caused injuries may need to be pursued through legal action against the landlord. For example, if mold damages your furniture, insurance may reimburse you, but if mold makes you sick, you may need to sue the landlord directly.

How Long Do I Have To File a Claim in New York?

In New York, tenants generally have three years to file a personal injury lawsuit against a careless landlord under New York’s statute of limitations. While that may seem like plenty of time, waiting can make gathering evidence and building a strong case harder. Speaking with a lawyer as soon as possible ensures you meet deadlines and protect your rights.

What Are the Most Common Hazards Caused by Negligent Landlords in NYC?

Negligent landlords put tenants at risk, and with millions of households renting in New York, these problems are widespread.

Some of the most common hazards include:

Faulty electrical systems: Poor wiring or outdated systems increase the risk of fires and often violate New York housing codes.
Mold and mildew exposure: Damp, poorly maintained apartments foster mold growth, triggering asthma, allergies, and respiratory illness, especially among children and older tenants.
Water damage and flooding: Leaks and unaddressed flooding weaken structural integrity, create slip hazards, and promote further mold growth.
Bed bugs and pest infestations: Common in multi-unit housing, infestations spread quickly and cause ongoing disruption to daily life.
Lead poisoning and toxic exposure: Lead paint remains a danger in older housing stock, especially when peeling or improperly removed, posing serious health risks to children.

Contact a New York Landlord Negligence Attorney for a Free Consultation

Living with unsafe housing conditions is overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our team has spent decades standing up for tenants across New York, taking on irresponsible landlords and management companies who put profits ahead of people. We understand the toll unsafe housing takes on your health, family, and finances.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by a negligent landlord, you deserve advocates who won’t back down. Call the real New Yorkers at (855) NYC-HURT, who understand what you’re going through, or reach out through the online contact form. We fight for you every step of the way.

“Alex Nocerino and his professional team handled our case with diligence and care. Hopefully it won’t be needed, but would def use his expertise again in the future. I spoke with several firms before choosing, and was impressed from the beginning. Give him a call and discuss your case, you have nothing to lose!”

– Zahra Ghiassi

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