I have been living at my apartment building for about 3 years. After 1 year, without notice, major renovations began. For the next 2 years, I have had to deal with noise, debris, lack of water, workers coming into my apartment every week, and recently was relocated to a different unit. The renovation has severely impacted my life. After several letters to the management describing the problems I have experienced and requesting some form of compensation, such as a decrease in rent, I was given a $300 credit. I took this as an insult as it in no way makes reparations for what I have been through. Many tenants in this 88 unit building have had the same experience and many, frustrated and helpless, have simply vacated. The landlords then raised rent on those units, raising the question, was this was intentional harassment? I believe our rights have been violated, and that accommodations should have been made such as relocation assistance or rent decreases for the duration of the renovation. Needless to say, we should have received notice of their plans in the first place. Most of the residents here are on a low income and are not aware of their rights, nor do they feel they have a voice, or the time to make their voices heard. I am aware of some rights and am positive that we are being taken advantage of and would greatly appreciate some legal advice. Thank you.
