Illegal basement apartments are among the most common infractions here in New York. Based on our site traffic, many building owners and tenants have questions about the legality of basement apartments. Following are frequently asked questions concerning these subterranean spaces…
Insurance providers look at many factors when determining what rate and coverage to offer at renewal. The inherent complexity of the insurance industry can leave property owners confused about the variables that increase their insurance premiums. Some factors will always…
Do you own a residential building in Manhattan, Brooklyn or Queens with 20 or fewer units? The New York Brick & Brownstone Program could improve your coverage and save you money. Designed specifically for smaller properties in New York City,…
The best way to save money on insurance is to lower your risk profile and avoid claims. In addition to the practices covered in our article on building a property profile, these safety tips can help managers of apartment, co-op…
The sidewalks around your building may belong to New York City. But the responsibility for maintenance and sidewalk liability belong to you. In fact, underwriters report that sidewalk-related injuries are the leading liability claim against New York City landlords. We’ve…
If you started to allow 10 times more distance to stop your vehicle, you’d probably be the most cautious driver in history. The American Automobile Association (AAA) reports that stopping in icy and snowy conditions can easily take that long…
No two buildings are exactly the same. And no two building owners are the same, for that matter. That's why one-size-fits-all policies usually don't fit anyone very well. Standard building insurance policies make certain assumptions about coverage. For instance, a…
Being a property owner and manager is similar to running almost any other business. You need to ensure profitability, protect against liability, understand the laws and regulations that govern your building, and market to your customers (in this case, tenants)…
Falling temperatures herald the holiday season, but winter weather also brings a new set of risks, including slips and falls, burst pipes, and space heater fires. Use this handy winter checklist for landlords to protect your residents and your property…
When shopping for investment properties in the New York City area, prospective building owners often encounter mixed-use property. These buildings combine commercial and residential space, and they’re found throughout the five boroughs and the surrounding area. Mixed-use properties can range…