Resources

The Housing Choice Voucher program (Section 8 ) requires that your landlord keep your apartment in good condition, and that your apartment meets “housing quality standards.” Learn more about the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program, contracts, and abatement (refusal to pay) after an inspection.

Before your landlord can put you out of your home or apartment, your landlord must serve you with court papers, take you to court, and get a warrant of eviction. Take a dive into this and other frequently asked questions regarding the eviction process, including warrants of eviction, 14-day notice, and tenants’ rights regarding their possessions in an eviction proceeding.

In New York State, your landlord is required to keep your home a safe and decent place to live. Learn more about your rights when your apartment conditions are bad or uninhabitable, including if a you can withhold rent.

In New York State, every residential lease or rental agreement contains a guarantee that your landlord will rent out a safe place to live. This guarantee is called the Warranty of Habitability. A tenant may bring up the warranty of habitability in an eviction proceeding, or as a separate claim against the landlord.

Learn more about warrants of habitability, how to schedule a warrant of habitability hearing, and how tenants may use it as a defense in an eviction proceeding.

When moving into a new place, your landlord may ask for a security deposit, to financially protect against damages. Learn more about what happens to that deposit when you move out.

Winter can be rough in WNY, and with cold weather comes potential damages due to frozen pipes, furnace issues, and more! Learn more about your rights, what to do if you need repairs, and find resources for further assistance.

What happens when you can’t pay your rent? Here’s what you can expect if your landlord wants you to leave.

If there are things wrong with your apartment that may be dangerous to your health and safety, you may want to have your apartment inspected. Learn more about when you may want to contact the health department or a building inspector to have your apartment inspected and what is involved in such inspections.

Whether you’re trying to prevent an eviction for non-payment, or are having trouble locating housing, you have options! Learn more about the types of assistance available for eviction prevention, security deposits, moving expenses, and sheltering.

Applications for benefits can be denied for any number of reasons and if you receive a denial, you still have options! A fair hearing gives you the chance to challenge the decision. Learn more about how to request and prepare for your fair hearing.