Tenants Can Pursue Class Action Based on Claim That Landlord Improperly Used Rent Concessions

Tenant sued landlord, claiming that she was charged more than the maximum legal rent under rent stabilization while the building received RPTL Section 421-a tax benefits. Tenant claimed that landlord engaged in a fraudulent scheme to avoid rent stabilization  laws through rent concessions and false registration. Tenant asked the court for class certification so that other tenants who were similarly situated could join in the lawsuit. The court ruled for tenant and granted class certification to current and former building tenants, with initial plaintiff being appointed as the class representative. The court also appointed plaintiff's law firm to represent the class, directed that a proposed notice of the action be provided to the class, and directed landlord to provide names and contact information for class members. 

Kasl v. 1719 27ST LLC: Index No. 721359/2022, NYLJ No. 1718674439 (Sup. Ct. Queens; 6/21/24; Grays, J)