I am a rent regulated tenant in a co op in Manhattan. I have been living here 44 years and am 73 years old. My apartment was bought by a speculator 2 years ago and it has been hell since.
I was injured in 1992 and since then I have been going down south during the cold weather, usually in a motor home. I have never let anyone stay in my apartment and last year when I returned there were mouse droppings 1/8 of an inch thick throughout the apartment.
This yeas I let someone stay there and I did not charge one dime, just wanted someone there to prevent mice.
I have now received a notice to cure and 4 other letters, all the same to john doe, jane doe, marie roe who I presume was meant for the friend in the apt and one for my ex wife, (gone 3 1/2 years.
I spoke to a lawyer before I left and was told it was ok to let someone stay without permission as long as no money changed hands.
Specifically it says I violated section 235f of the real property law, it also goes on to sa that I wm allowing the person to occupy demised premises when I am not actually occupying the apartment as my primary residence.
Landlord states I am not residing in apartment, I am in the apartment, believes I may be living somewhere else. I have a 20x30 foot plot of land I used to sore my motor home but have abandoned it. Says I am not registered to vote, and my landline is no longer in service , 3 years ago, I have cell service. That my ex uses the address for credit reports.
It says I must remove all illegal tenants, my friend is gone 2 weeks ago,
I have 10 days to respond. What to do?????
Would appreciate any legal minds helping me or allowing me to bounce off you.
Thanks