Conduct in connection with offers to induce a person to vacate a dwelling unit.

A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to conduct in connection with offers to induce a person to vacate a dwelling unit

There have recently been several reported incidents of building owners hiring tenant relocation specialists to try to convince tenants, many of whom are rent-regulated, to leave their apartments. This bill would create a licensing scheme for tenant relocation specialists and agencies which would require applicants to pass an exam, furnish a surety bond, pay a licensing fee and make initial contact with tenants in writing. It would also bar licensees from harassing tenants or providing false information to tenants. Finally, this bill would require the Commissioner of the Department of Consumer Affairs to provide an annual report to the Mayor and the Council on the implementation of this law.