Renters and COVID-19
Many of you have asked whether rent need still be paid during the COVID crisis. Our understanding for now, appears to be “yes.” However, late fees cannot be imposed for non-payment or late payment and you cannot be evicted for non-payment at least until June 20, 2020.
The commercial and legal landscape for renters in NYC, including in Gateway, is changing almost daily. The major federal COVID relief legislation that became law on Friday, March 27 (the CARES Act) provides some relief. The CARES act prohibits the commencement of non-payment eviction proceedings for a period of 120 days and prohibits the imposition of late fees or penalties for non-payment during that same period. These protections apply to tenants in buildings that have federally backed mortgages, which include mortgages that are insured by HUD. We have confirmed today (April 1) with Greg Tumminia (Gateway’s General Manager) that Gateway does indeed have a federally insured mortgage. Greg went on to say:
The landlord will adhere to all applicable laws and regulations. We are responding to all resident inquiries as we still have some staff on-site daily (seven days per week). We also have phones forwarded to staff members that are working remotely.
General Operations Update will be released later today to all residents in a form of an e-mail. We are well stocked with masks( N-95), gloves, other PPE equipment in addition to sanitizer and hospital grade disinfectants. Our building staff is holding up okay.
Best to you and your families during these difficult times.
In addition to these federal protections, New York State has imposed a prohibition against evictions for any reason, at least until June 20, 2020.
Other Resources:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2020/04/01/april-1st-rent-mortgage-payment-due-faq
https://blog.augrented.com/renting-during-the-novel-coronavirus-outbreak/