The basic dignity of every tenant is currently under threat in One East Harlem in New York, NY with many apartments lacking essential amenities such as working heaters, air conditioning units, and appliances. There is also a significant issue with unprofessional management by companies such as OEH (through Richman Property Group), who fail to address tenants' concerns within their rights and provide safe living conditions. Problems also extend to safety standards, notably the need for reforms in policies regarding escorting to units and non-resident loitering in common areas. 

Our urgent appeal is for proper housing standards to be enforced in all apartments. All residential units should include working heaters and air conditioning units, as well as functional appliances, as specified by the Department of Housing and Urban Development's Minimum Property Standards. 

Furthermore, we demand the replacement of management in firms like OEH (through Richman Property Group) with professionals who not only possess strong interpersonal skills but also understand and respect tenants' rights. The management should prioritize safety and creating a supportive living environment for all residents.

Lastly, we are making a strong call for safety reforms. There should be a comprehensive review and modification of policies regarding escorting to units and regular monitoring of common areas to prevent non-resident loitering and theft. This demand is not just a desire, but an absolute necessity. According to the Attorney General Letitia James we the tenants as follows: 

Warranty of Habitability 
Under the warranty of habitability, tenants have the right to a livable, safe and sanitary apartment, a right that is implied in every written or oral residential lease. Any lease provision that waives this right is contrary to public policy and is therefore void. Examples of a breach of this warranty include the failure to provide heat or hot water on a regular basis, or the failure to rid an apartment of an insect infestation.

Public areas of the building are also covered by the warranty of habit- ability. Owners of cooperative apartments can raise the warranty of habitability but not owners of condominiums. Tenants and subtenants in cooperatives and condominiums can raise the warranty of habitability. 

Any uninhabitable condition caused by the tenant or persons under the tenant’s direction or control does not constitute a breach of the warranty of habitability. In such a case, it is the tenant’s responsibility to remedy the condition (Real Property Law §235-b). 

Can be found here: https://ag.ny.gov/publications/residential-tenants-rights-guide#lease

Let's ensure the rights and safety of all tenants by supporting this petition. Let's make our homes in New York safer, equipped with necessary amenities, and managed by professionals who uphold our rights. Please sign our petition.