The Mayor Has Called For A ‘Rent Freeze’ In NYC For Rent-Stabilized Apartments
As well as an extension on the Eviction Moratorium
In his daily press conference this morning, April 13, Mayor de Blasio called on the Rent Guidelines Board to enact a rent freeze in NYC, for those with rent-stabilized apartments.
The Rent Guidelines Board is the group of people who determine the annual percent rent changes for those in rent-stabilized apartments. There are over 2 million New Yorkers who are rent stabilized, the Mayor said, and he has asked the board to enact a rent freeze for them as soon as possible.
“It’s something they [the Rent Guidelines Board] has the power to do,” he said. “It’s something they have done before in times where the facts merited it. I think this is a time where it’s 100% clear that people are hurting like never before, they deserve a rent freeze, and I want to see that happen quickly.”
He also asked the State to change laws and regulations to:
- Allow renters to use their security deposits to pay rent if they don’t have the money
- Extend the moratorium on evictions until 60 days after the crisis has ended (currently it is enacted through around June 20)
- Allow tenants who have lost their job (with proof) to defer rent and pay it over a 12-month payment plan
The city has also set up a tenants’ rights hotline through 311 to help know where they can get renters’ relief and income. This includes explaining rights and rules, government relief possibilities, and connecting tenants with a lawyer if needed, and more.
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