My former NYC landlord is claiming damage to the laminate flooring which isn't true and are trying to collection $1,000+ from us for it. We took pictures so I feel confident we can prove no damage beyond normal wear and tear. I believe they are trying to get us to pay for flooring they replace anyway before each new tenant. I've threatened to file an overcharge complaint and I'm prepared to fight them in court if need be.
It's a rent-regulated building so in re-renting it and upping the rent for that unit, I suspect they used the cost of the flooring to justify the higher rent for the new tenant. Since I'm no longer the current tenant, can I get access to that info from DHCR?
Any suggestions on how to fight this?