Real Property Law Section 235-b imposes an implied warranty of habitability in every residential lease. Premises must be fit for human habitation and free of conditions dangerous to life, health, or safety. The right cannot be waived, and tenants may recover rent abatement for breaches.
Under RPL Section 235-b, every residential lease carries an implied warranty that the premises are "fit for human habitation and for the uses reasonably intended" and that occupants will not be "subjected to any conditions which would be dangerous, hazardous or detrimental to their life, health or safety." It covers the unit and common areas but not conditions caused by the tenant. Courts may award damages, typically as a rent abatement measured by the reduction in rental value, without requiring expert testimony. Any lease provision waiving the warranty is "void as contrary to public policy." For rent-regulated units, awards are reduced by any rent reduction already ordered by housing authorities for the same condition.
Tenants may sue for rent abatement and damages reflecting the reduced rental value during the defective period; courts may also order repairs. Waivers of the warranty are void.
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