NYC Housing Court Glossary
Warranty of Habitability
Plain EnglishYour landlord must keep your apartment livable — full stop
Legal Definition
Under RPL § 235-b, every tenant in NY has the right to a safe, livable apartment. Breach is both a defense in eviction cases and the basis for a rent abatement counterclaim.
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Practical Tip
Bad heat? No hot water? Mold? Pests? These aren't just annoyances — they're legal defenses. Document everything with photos and HPD complaints.
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