Bill > S06458

This bill establishes a new legal provision that allows tenants to sue their building owners if self-closing doors are not properly maintained, as required by the uniform code and administrative code. Under this bill, lawful occupants of a dwelling unit can bring a legal action in court if self-closing doors are not kept in proper working condition. If the court finds a violation, it can award tenants compensatory damages (and potentially punitive damages), a flat $1,000 damage amount at the tenant's election, reasonable attorney's fees and court costs, and issue an order requiring the building owner to fix the self-closing doors. Importantly, tenants remain obligated to pay their rent, and any monetary damages awarded will be reduced by any delinquent rent owed. The bill explicitly states that this new right of action does not replace or limit existing legal remedies and cannot be used against local governments or their employees. The law will take effect 90 days after it becomes law, providing building owners time to prepare for the new requirements.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6458