Hey New Yorkers,

I’m in a really tough situation with my landlord that’s gone from difficult to downright dangerous. What I thought I could manage has now turned into a serious health risk. I’ve been living in a partially demolished apartment for 8 months now, breathing in dust from a 100-year-old building, while my landlord shouts things like, “Just leave!” and, “I will fix it when you leave” i just signed a 24 month lease.

She entered my place 8 months ago with workers and demolished over half of it, claiming a pipe had burst—but I know it’s all part of an insurance fraud scheme. Since then, I’ve repeatedly asked her to repair the damage, but she’s ignored me entirely. It took her 4 months to remove a stacked washer and dryer that blocked my front door that i had to climb around daily. Meanwhile, she’s installed $100K spa and lap pool in her backyard and throwing pool parties, all while I’m stuck living in a disaster zone.

I was diagnosed this week with a serious respiratory infection, and heart disease - a year ago i was fine. my doctor is shocked at how quickly my health has deteriorated. He’s convinced my living conditions are to blame, and my friends agree—it feels like this landlord has destroyed not only my home but my well-being.

I need a lawyer who’s skilled, tough, and experienced in dealing with slumlords and personal injury cases. This is an owner occupied situation and she believes she is above the tenant laws . She is ruthless and constantly involved in lawsuits—she’s a bully, and I need someone who can fight back. I’ve tried the 311 route and sat for hours, only to fill out forms and never hear back.

Any recommendations for lawyers or law offices that can take on a case like this? I’m dealing with multiple violations, including personal injury and neglect. While I’d love for this to be a quick settlement, I know that’s rarely the case. In the end, I just want to get out, live in a decent place, and focus on managing my health before things get even worse (my doctor says get out a great attack is near, but i am ion a voucher and that makes it not easy)).

Any advice or lawyer referrals would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!