Many New Yorkers are displaced each year due to fires, often spending months waiting for their homes to be repaired. A recent bill introduced by State Senate Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris aims to address any delays caused by owners who are slow to make repairs. The bill would require owners found at fault for fires to cover their tenants’ rent until they can return home.

One Level Deeper: Although Senate Bill S3886 was introduced in the New York State Senate, it specifically amends the Administrative Code of New York City. The bill applies only to owners whose negligence or intentional actions caused a fire or disaster that led to tenants losing their apartments.

Displaced tenants would be guaranteed a “suitable accommodation” paid for by the owner until their original home is repaired. HPD currently provides emergency shelters and offers some help looking for apartments to renters forced to leave their homes because of unsafe conditions. Gianaris’ bill would instead require the agency to place families in apartments, or temporary accommodations with private kitchens and bathrooms, and have owners pay the costs.

A related City Council proposal was introduced last year by Councilmember Shekar Krishnan. It seeks to improve tenant relocation services and ensure repairs happen faster. The councilmember’s legislation includes measures that would allow tenants to remain closer to their buildings when they are under construction due to a city vacate order and to collect their belongings from their homes after leaving the premises.

What’s Next: The state bill is currently under review in the State Senate’s Housing, Construction, and Community Development Committee.