We have two lotteries to tell you about this week, one with rents that start as low as $544 a month. Plus, according to Gothamist, nearly 5,000 New Yorkers filed complaints with the state because their previous landlords refused to return their security deposit. Housing experts believe there are more victims in similar situations. If you are one of them, there are a few things you can do to get the money back.
Riverton Square waiting list
Lottery ends: Dec 6
Location: 2156 Madison Ave. in East Harlem
This lottery will add winning applicants to a waiting list to fill current and ongoing vacancies. The amenities include a playground, senior center, shared laundry room and on-site manager.
Rents are based on income. One-bedroom apartments have monthly rents starting at $852.80. Two-bedroom apartments start at $954.23.
You can apply here on the Housing Connect website or by mail. Directions to apply by mail are also on Housing Connect.
Beach Green Dunes III
Lottery ends: Dec. 16
Location: 3-31 Beach 35 Street in Far Rockaway, Queens
This lottery is for a new 166-unit building. Amenities include dishwashers, an on-site super, a gym, a laundry room and community space. There is also bicycle parking, outdoor parking, and direct access to public transportation.
Rental prices are based on income. Studios start at $544 per month, one-bedroom apartments begin at $689, two-bedroom units at $1,165, and three-bedroom apartments at $1,335 per month.
You can apply here on the Housing Connect website or by mail. Directions to apply by mail are also on Housing Connect.
How to get your security deposit back if your landlord refuses
A recent Gothamist report found that most complaints of unreturned security deposits in New York are from renters within the five boroughs. Regardless of whether your apartment is market rate or rent-stabilized, landlords are not allowed to keep your security deposit for normal wear and tear.
As we previously reported, owners must keep your security deposit in an interest-bearing account. When you move out, you have the right to that interest minus a 1% administrative fee.
If you don’t get your money back, you can file a complaint with the attorney general’s office. They will contact the landlord and offer remediation services to help you.
You can also sue in small claims court. The AG’s office will not be able to represent you but does offer resources to help you navigate the process.
For those in rent-stabilized apartments, the Rent Guidelines Board has additional information that may be helpful.
See more of our housing stories here.
