Landlord Refused to Give Tenant Form to Get Rental Assistance

Prior landlord sued to evict tenant for nonpayment of rent and signed a settlement agreement in court. The eviction warrant agreed to was stayed pending payment, upon which landlord would give tenant a lease. New landlord asked to substitute into the case. Tenant didn't object but asked the court to vacate the settlement agreement because new landlord failed to give tenant a W-9 form, which tenant needed to complete an application to obtain rental assistance through the Special Exit and Prevention Supplement (SEPS) program. The court ruled that landlord's refusal to give tenant the W-9 was discrimination and grounds to vacate the eviction warrant. The court allowed landlord to substitute into the case and delayed execution on the eviction warrant so that landlord could provide the form. If it failed to do so, the court would vacate the eviction warrant.

Flushing QP Portfolio, II LLC v. Williams: Index No. L&T 75602/15, NYLJ No. 1202796730255 (Civ. Ct. Queens; 8/11/17; Kullas, J)