New-York based startup is using cutting-edge tech to protect tenants

(NEW YORK, NY) — The fight to protect rent-controlled units in New York City is ongoing. Standing up to landlords who want to sell market-rate units can be challenging.

However, the free web-app JustFix.nyc is helping tenants build legal cases to fight evictions and request necessary repairs in rent-regulated units.

 

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“Landlords recieved 421G, 421A and J51 all wealthy, generous offers and they still destabilize apartments illegally… If the city had control over rent regulation it would solve a lot of problems. It’s an imporant year and a opportunity for the renewal of rent laws. It’s a critical moment for rent stabilization” – @JesseGribbel “Organizing is a important aspect of housing in NYC, we need to continue to do so to preserve affordable housing”- Lucy Block #ANHD @anhdnyc “NYCHA has a $32 billion capital improvements backlog with only $5-6 billion in funding to make those repairs. It was safe to say they were and still are the worst landlord in comparison to other landlords in the city” – Victor Bach @communityservicessociety #justfixnyc #mandatoryinclusionaryzoning #nopoordoor #getridofvacancydecontrol #15neighborhoodsunderrezoning

A post shared by JustFixNYC (@justfixnyc) on Aug 1, 2018 at 11:12am PDT

Sometimes, landlords need to be reminded of their legal obligations. JustFix works to send attorney-vetted memos reminding landlords that if they don’t keep their end of the bargain, legal repercussions will follow, according to amNY.com.

Landlords who receive the certified mail from JustFix tend to follow through with repairs, according to amNY.com. However, if the letter doesn’t correct the wrongdoings of a landlord, there’s no need to fear. The app will soon offer a service that will assist in the process of suing apartment owners.

Co-founders Daniel Kass and Georges Clement launched the app back in 2016. Since then, the nonprofit has helped around 2,500 tenants.