Repairs are one of the biggest sources of conflict between tenants and landlords. In NYC, landlords are not doing repairs as a “favor” — many repairs are legally required to keep a unit safe and habitable.
This guide explains the most common repair responsibilities in simple terms, what tenants should document, and what steps to take when repairs aren’t handled.
Note: This article is for general information and is not legal advice.
In NYC, landlords must maintain livable conditions. That generally includes safe utilities, proper sanitation, secure entry, and the ability to live in the unit without serious hazards.
If a condition threatens health or safety, it’s usually not optional.
One of the most important landlord obligations is providing heat and hot water.
Common required repairs include:
broken boilers or radiators
no heat in winter
no hot water or inconsistent hot water
unsafe heating equipment
If heat or hot water is not working, treat it as urgent.
Landlords are typically responsible for:
leaking pipes
clogged drains (especially recurring building issues)
broken sinks or toilets
water damage from plumbing failures
ceiling leaks from units above
Water damage can lead to mold and structural problems, so it should be addressed quickly.
Electrical safety is a major requirement.
Repairs often include:
non-working outlets
exposed wiring
repeated breaker trips caused by faulty systems
unsafe light fixtures
building-level electrical failures
Tenants should avoid DIY electrical repairs for safety reasons.
Landlords aren’t always required to provide every appliance — but if appliances are included in the apartment, the landlord is generally responsible for keeping them functional.
Common examples:
stove/oven not working
refrigerator failure (if provided)
built-in heating/cooling systems
building-provided AC or HVAC issues
Always check your lease and listing details regarding included appliances.
Pests are a habitability issue.
Landlords usually must address:
roaches and rodents
bed bug treatment procedures (often regulated)
recurring infestations caused by building conditions
gaps or holes that allow pests in
Tenants should report issues early and document everything.
Mold is often caused by leaks, poor ventilation, or water damage.
Landlords may be required to:
fix the moisture source
repair water damage
remediate mold safely
improve ventilation where necessary
If mold is connected to a building issue, it should not be ignored.
Safety-related repairs include:
broken apartment door locks
unsafe entry doors
broken intercom/buzzer systems
damaged windows that don’t lock properly
Secure access is a basic expectation for safe housing.
Landlords are responsible for maintaining major structural elements such as:
broken windows or frames
holes in walls or ceilings
loose or unsafe flooring
ceiling collapses or falling plaster
severe water damage affecting structure
Cosmetic wear can be negotiable, but safety issues are not.
Safety devices are a critical part of modern housing.
Landlords are typically responsible for:
providing required smoke detectors
providing required carbon monoxide detectors (where applicable)
ensuring devices are installed correctly and working
If these are missing or broken, request repair immediately.
To protect yourself, always request repairs in writing.
A good approach:
Describe the issue clearly
Include photos or video
State when the problem started
Ask for an expected repair timeframe
Save all messages and responses
Written records matter if the issue escalates.
If serious issues are ignored:
follow up in writing
document conditions regularly
consider contacting local housing support resources
if the situation is urgent (heat, major leaks, dangerous wiring), take action faster
The best step depends on severity, but documentation is always helpful.
In NYC, landlords are legally required to maintain safe, livable apartments — including heat, hot water, plumbing, electrical safety, pest control, and secure locks.
Knowing what repairs are required helps tenants communicate clearly and avoid being pressured into accepting unsafe conditions.
If an issue affects safety or health, treat it seriously and keep records from day one.
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