Bill > A01352

This bill establishes a private right of action for tenants in New York State and New York City who allege that building owners have failed to maintain self-closing doors in compliance with the uniform code and administrative code. Specifically, tenants can now sue building owners in court if self-closing doors are not properly maintained. If the court finds a violation, it can award each tenant either compensatory damages (and potentially punitive damages) or a flat $1,000, reasonable attorneys' fees and court costs, and issue an order requiring the owner to fix the self-closing doors. The bill importantly clarifies that tenants are still obligated to pay their rent, and any monetary damages awarded will be reduced by any delinquent rent owed. The legislation does not create a right to sue local governments or their employees, and it does not limit tenants' existing rights under common law or other legal remedies. The bill will go into effect 90 days after becoming law, providing tenants with a new legal tool to ensure their building's doors are properly maintained for safety and security.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1352