New York Landlord Steven Kashanian and BlueSky Management Agree to Over $672K Settlement for Tenant Safety Violations

New York Attorney General Letitia James and the Tenant Harassment Prevention Task Force reached a settlement exceeding $672,000 with landlord Steven Kashanian and BlueSky Management NY, LLC, due to unsafe living conditions in their 72 buildings across Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and the Bronx. The settlement mandates corrective measures for properties where tenants experienced issues like illegal construction and disruptions to essential services. BlueSky must issue refunds for overcharges since February 2023 and provide credits for days without heat, alongside correcting outstanding construction violations and hiring compliance monitors.

The investigation, led by the Task Force, revealed over 3,000 violations, including unfiled rent registrations and hazardous conditions. Penalties include $100,000 to New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) for failing to file rent registrations, addressing illegal apartment deregulation. HCR Commissioner Visnauskas emphasized a “zero tolerance” policy for exploiting vulnerable tenants.

This settlement is part of Attorney General James’ ongoing efforts to protect low-income tenants, building on previous successes that have resulted in millions in restitution and the re-regulation of rent-stabilized units. The case was handled by the Housing Protection Unit of the OAG's Division for Social Justice, reinforcing the commitment to upholding tenants’ rights and ensuring safe living conditions.

(Source：Hoodline)