Residents at the
Kenney Apartments in Newburgh say they’ve been living without consistent heat and hot water during some of the coldest days of winter – complaints that have now triggered a state lawsuit.
“It’s cold in my house. And it’s not fair,” said resident Wilhemma Lamb.
Kenney is not the only complex drawing concerns. News 12 has heard similar complaints this winter including Park Place Tower in Peekskill and the Westview Apartments in New Rochelle.
In Westchester, landlords are legally required to maintain indoor temperatures of at least 68 degrees during the heating season.
At Park Place Tower, management brought in contractors, installed a temporary boiler, and provided space heaters. News 12 has learned tenants there will also receive one month of free rent due to the heating issues.
But for others, frustration remains.
“The management company won’t respond to messages,” said a New Rochelle resident who did not want to be seen on camera.
Westchester County officials urge tenants experiencing heating problems to contact their local municipality. In Yonkers, renters can also call the city’s heat assistance line at 914-965-3331.