Hi, first time post.
I have been leaving with my wife and 2 kids for 4 years in this non-stabilized pre-war apartment (de-stabilized in 2010 as per record HD rent threshold went above $2000) as per DHCR history.
We have celebrated 2-year lease two times, the rent was increased by 3% on each renewal. Our last lease is due on October 1. We were completely surprised when we received the lease renewal with 22% rent increase. this is insane considering our household income, we tried to negotiate but there's but responses are done in a very blunt rude manner.
The Landlord claims that rent is being adjusted to market prices and won't give us an option of signing for 2 years, only offer 1-year lease from now on. Also, wants to access the apartment to replace the kitchen tiles and cabinets. We understand that this is purely cosmetic work, they are original to the building and aged badly but hold a certain character and serve the purpose.
The plumbing fixtures are fully functional and there are no damages or leaks that would compromise the unit or other units integrity. We both have a long experience working in NYC house renovations, so we know that replacing the tiles would not be done in a breeze. There is demolition, debris removal, new wonder board and so on... dust, workers, the room could be out of commission more than just a few days.
Firstly, we have a 6 Month old baby and a 8 years old and we are concerned with dust and having lead paint disturbed.
Secondly,we are made to believe that Landlord is willing to renovate while we are there and will get ready to hike the rent next time we renew, alleging capital improvement.
May long story be short, can we refuse the renovation Legally? We're not interested in breaking any lease rules, but is the landlord stretching the rope?
Thanks so much