Residents of a Bronx building located in the Morris Heights section recently initiated legal action against their landlords and various city departments. The lawsuit follows a partial collapse on December 11 that not only rendered numerous individuals homeless but also exposed them to what they claim are persistently “hazardous” conditions.

The Collapse and Its Aftermath

The incident, which occurred in the West Burnside Avenue vicinity, resulted in the fall of a section of the building, showering debris onto the street below. Despite minor injuries, no one was trapped in the rubble. A video capturing the incident revealed pedestrians fleeing for safety as the structure crumbled.

At 1915 Billingsley Terrace, some debris reached heights of up to 12 feet. Official records from the Buildings Department indicate that the building comprises nearly 50 apartments, leaving approximately 140 people displaced, including 31 children.

Legal Action and Allegations

Over 24 tenants from the affected building have taken legal action to expedite repairs and the reconstruction of the collapsed section. Their lawsuit alleges that the property owners resorted to “blatantly illegal behavior,” coercing tenants into signing agreements falsely claiming their apartments were fully repaired to receive keys, despite the persistently deplorable conditions.

The tenants place blame on the landlords for insufficient security, asserting that “looters” exploited the situation, gaining access to some apartments and stealing personal belongings. Furthermore, the lawsuit details the “deplorable” living conditions within the building, including infestations of bugs and rodents and a lack of gas supply.

Scope of the Challenge

The legal battle sheds light on the broader issue of unsafe living conditions persisting for an extended period, with claims that the tenants’ hardships began well before the collapse. Zoe Kheyman, a staff attorney for Legal Aid’s Civil Practice, remarked, “Our clients and all tenants of 1915 Billingsley have suffered tremendously at the hands of their landlord.”

Impact on Residents

The aftermath of the collapse has left numerous families grappling with displacement, having evacuated with only the clothes on their backs. With 140 people affected, the incident underscores the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address the housing crisis.

Building and Tenant Statistics

The building, with close to 50 apartments, has become a focal point for addressing tenant rights and property management concerns. The evacuation of 140 individuals, including 31 children, amplifies the magnitude of the situation and the pressing need for immediate resolution.

A Call for Urgent Action

The lawsuit against landlords and city departments serves as a stark reminder of the challenges tenants face in securing safe living conditions. The incident at 1915 Billingsley Terrace highlights the imperative for swift and effective measures to address not only the aftermath of the collapse but also the longstanding issues of neglect and endangerment faced by the tenants. As the legal proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen how the city and property owners will respond to the urgent calls for action.