New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S04211

Introduced
2/3/25  
Refer
2/3/25  

Caption

Requires owner of a multiple dwelling to procure and maintain fire insurance on such multiple dwelling in the amount of the full cost to replace such multiple dwelling; requires owners of multiple dwellings to use insurance proceeds to replace such multiple dwellings; deems void provisions in other documents which are contrary to such insurance requirement; provides that failure to comply with such provisions shall constitute a misdemeanor; gives tenants a right to resume occupancy upon restoration of such multiple dwelling.

Summary

Bill S04211 amends the multiple dwelling law in New York, mandating that owners of multiple dwellings procure and maintain fire insurance policies that cover the full replacement value of the property. The bill stipulates that the proceeds from these insurance policies must be used to restore any damaged property to a habitable condition equivalent to its state prior to the loss. Additionally, tenants who were occupying the dwelling at the time of the loss and are not responsible for it are granted the right to continue their occupancy under the same lease terms after restoration.

Impact

This legislation impacts state laws by reinforcing the requirement for fire insurance on multiple dwellings, thereby enhancing tenant protections and ensuring that properties are restored to a livable condition after damage. It also voids any contractual provisions that contradict these requirements, establishing a clear public policy aimed at safeguarding tenants' rights and property standards. The bill introduces penalties for non-compliance, categorizing such failures as misdemeanors, which could lead to increased accountability among property owners.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S04211 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among tenant advocacy groups who view it as a necessary measure to protect renters' rights and ensure safe living conditions. However, there may be concerns from property owners regarding the financial implications of mandatory insurance and restoration requirements, which could lead to further discussions and debates in committee.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential financial burden on landlords to maintain insurance policies and the obligation to restore properties after damage. Property owners may argue that the costs associated with these requirements could be prohibitive, while tenant advocates emphasize the importance of ensuring safe and habitable living conditions for renters. The balance between landlord responsibilities and tenant protections is likely to be a focal point of discussion as the bill progresses.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY S2208

Requires owners of multiple dwellings with at least nine units to provide certain maintenance services; permits municipalities to require owners of multiple dwellings with six to eight units to provide these services.

NY A11308

Relates to certain alterations to multiple dwellings; repealer

NY S4244

Requires multiple dwelling building owners to provide notice to tenants and tenant associations of certain sales and provides tenant association with opportunity to purchase multiple dwelling.

NY A5126

Requires multiple dwelling building owners to provide notice to tenants and tenant associations of certain sales and provides tenant association with opportunity to purchase multiple dwelling.

NY A1390

"Sebastien's Law"; revises certain requirements for window guards in certain multiple dwellings.

NY A02024

Exempts owners of farms and the owners of multiple dwellings from complying with the scaffold law in certain instances.

NY A02303

Exempts owners of farms and the owners of multiple dwellings from complying with the scaffold law in certain instances.

NY S10497

Creates shared housing rooming units in new class A multiple dwellings or buildings converted to class A multiple dwellings; creates new regulations in the New York city building codes.

NY A11136

Creates shared housing rooming units in new class A multiple dwellings or buildings converted to class A multiple dwellings; creates new regulations in the New York city building codes.

NY SF3627

Elected officials to be given access to multiple unit dwellings under certain circumstances requirement

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.