NY A05427

Tenants displaced by fire-related vacate orders are entitled to suitable temporary accommodations, with the Department of Housing Preservation and Development required to refer them to approved housing

Building owners found to have negligently or intentionally caused or contributed to the fire must pay rent for the displaced tenant's temporary accommodation until repairs are completed

"Suitable accommodation" must meet specific standards including adequate floor area, no hazardous violations, heat and hot water, private kitchen and bathroom facilities, ADA accessibility, and where feasible, comparable size and location to the original unit

Displaced tenants may apply to pay $1 per month nominal rent on their vacated apartment to maintain their right of first refusal to return once repairs are complete, with owners required to cover moving costs and prohibited from requiring new security deposits

If owners fail to pay for temporary housing, the city may advance rent payments and recover costs plus a penalty of up to $10,000 from the owner