How Do I File a 311 Complaint Against My Landlord in NYC?

January 10, 2026

Dealing with a leaky ceiling, pest invasion, or broken heat in your NYC rental? You're not powerless-filing a 311 complaint against your landlord can trigger official inspections and force fixes fast. We'll break down what qualifies (like heat and pest violations), how to gather rock-solid evidence, step-by-step filing online/phone/in-person, and tracking results through NYC's 311 system. Ready to reclaim your rights? Let's dive in!

What is a 311 Complaint?

NYC's 311 system handles over 2.5 million service requests annually, with housing complaints making up 25% of total calls according to 2023 NYC Open Data reports. It serves as the city's centralized non-emergency hotline, reachable by dialing 311 or 212-NYC-311. This service connects tenants to key agencies for issues like no heat or pest infestations.

Tip: Want to sanity-check a specific address? Search it on Building Health X to see recent heat/hot water, pests, noise, safety and violations across 30/90 days, 1 year and 3 years.

The Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) leads on housing matters and receives 500K+ complaints yearly. Other main agencies include the Department of Buildings (DOB) for structural violations and the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for utilities. Tenants can report landlord NYC violations anonymously through this system.

311 supports 40+ languages and operates 24/7 for accessibility across boroughs like Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, and Staten Island. Use the 311 app NYC or file complaints online for convenience. Track your 311 service request number to monitor status and response times.

For emergency housing complaints, 311 dispatches inspections quickly, while non-emergency 311 calls follow standard procedures. This helps enforce NYC housing laws and tenant rights, including the warranty of habitability. Always note your complaint reference ID for follow-ups.

Types of Housing Issues Covered

311 covers Class A (non-hazardous like peeling paint), Class B (hazardous like no heat), and Class C (immediately hazardous like no hot water) violations per NYC Housing Maintenance Code. These align with NYC Admin Code Title 27 Chapter 5. Distinguish immediate emergency issues from non-emergency ones to set expectations for 311 response time.

Report heat complaints NYC, hot water issues, or bedbug infestations via call 311 NYC or the mobile app. HPD issues notices of violation (NOV) and orders to correct (OTC) after inspections. Landlords face fines for violations if they ignore repair orders.

Issue	Violation Class	Response Time	Examples
No heat	Class B	3 days	Apartment below 68 degreesF in winter
Bedbugs	Class A	7 days	Pest infestation report
Leaking roof	Class B	14 days	Water damage in unit
Mold	Class A	21 days	Mold in apartment growth
No hot water	Class C	24 hours	Plumbing problem 311
Broken elevator	Class B	3 days	Broken elevator NYC in multi-story building

Use this table to identify your HPD violation type before filing. For building code violations like illegal renovations, DOB handles via 311. Escalate unresponsive cases through tenant helplines or housing court summons.

When to File Against Your Landlord

File when landlords violate NYC's Warranty of Habitability (Local Law 1 of 2004), covering essential services landlords must provide. This law requires landlords to maintain heat, hot water, and other basics in good working order. Failing to do so triggers your right to report via a 311 complaint.

Under Multiple Dwelling Law 78-79, landlords must supply heat during cold months. Tenants face no heat for over 72 hours when indoor temperature drops below 68 degreesF, or no hot water for over 24 hours. These thresholds mark clear legal violations for filing a housing complaint NYC.

After proper notice to your landlord, you can withhold rent for repeated habitability issues NYC. Document everything before calling 311 NYC or using the 311 app. This protects against retaliation while enforcing NYC housing laws.

Service	Required	Time to Fix
Heat	68 degreesF (Oct 1-May 31)	72 hours max
Hot Water	120 degreesF min	24 hours max
Hot Water in Summer	Adequate supply	72 hours max
Plumbing	Functional drains	Reasonable time

Common Qualifying Violations

HPD issued 380,000 violations in 2023, with Class C (immediate hazards) making up 12% requiring same-day response. These stem from serious building code violations that threaten health and safety. File a 311 complaint promptly for issues like no heat or pests.

Class B violations cover urgent fixes, such as no heat below 68 degreesF or mold over 30 square feet. Landlords face fines of $250-$500 per violation from the HPD penalty schedule. Report broken window locks or leaking roofs the same way.

No heat complaint NYC (Class B, $250-500 fine): Below 68 degreesF for 72+ hours.
No hot water issue (Class C, $500+ fine): Over 24 hours without 120 degreesF water.
Pest infestation like rodents (Class A): Requires re-inspection after treatment.
Mold in apartment >30sqft (Class B): Triggers health risks and repair orders.
Broken locks on doors (Class B): Prevents secure entry, immediate concern.

No smoke detectors (Class C): Fire safety violation needing same-day fix.
Garbage accumulation in building (Class A): Sanitation hazard for all tenants.
Illegal basement units (DOB): Violates occupancy codes, report to Department of Buildings.

For any of these, use the 311 app NYC, call 311, or file online anonymously. Track your 311 service request number to follow up on HPD inspections and order to correct issuance. This process often leads to property owner citations and repairs.

Gathering Evidence Before Filing

Document everything with timestamped photos and detailed notes before filing your 311 complaint against your landlord in NYC. This creates a clear evidence chain that strengthens your case with the Department of Housing Preservation and Development. Include date and time stamps, measurements, and multiple angles for each issue.

Use free apps like Photo Timestamp for iOS or Open Camera for Android to embed metadata automatically. Follow a simple template: one photo of the issue, a measurement shot with a ruler, a wide shot for context, and a copy of any written notice. This approach helps prove habitability issues NYC like mold or heat complaints.

Store files in a dedicated folder with names like 2024-01-15_heat_no_68F.jpg. Take photos in natural light and use a grid overlay for straight shots. Experts recommend this method to track building code violations over time.

For landlord NYC violations such as pest infestation or broken elevators, repeat documentation weekly if repairs lag. This builds a timeline for HPD inspections and supports tenant rights NYC under housing maintenance code. Always note the apartment number and building address visibly.

Photos, Videos, and Documentation

Use your phone's native camera with grid overlay enabled for clear shots when documenting a housing complaint NYC. Take five shots per issue: close-up of the defect, wide shot for context, measurement with a ruler or thermometer, timestamp visible, and any super response from the superintendent. This covers problems like water damage or leaking roof complaints.

Follow this numbered photo checklist for every report landlord violation:

Wide shot showing context, with apartment number and date visible on a calendar or screen.
Close-up of the defect, like mold measurement or plumbing problem.
Thermometer reading for heat complaints below code requirements.
Copy of any written violation notice or prior communication.
Video walkthrough, 30-60 seconds, narrating the issue while moving through the space.

Name files consistently, such as 2024-01-15_mold_kitchen_12sqft.jpg, and upload to a secure folder. Use natural light to avoid shadows, and include a ruler for scale on issues like cracks in walls. This documentation aids HPD violation enforcement.

For videos, speak clearly about the warranty of habitability breach, like no hot water or rodent control issues. Keep videos short to focus on key areas, such as electrical hazards or missing smoke detectors. Pair with written logs of dates, times, and 311 service request numbers for complete records.

Filing Online via NYC 311 Portal

Most housing complaints NYC residents file through the online system receive instant service request numbers via 311.nyc.gov or the Citywide Mobile App. This method works well for issues like heat complaints NYC, pest infestations, or mold in apartments. It saves time compared to calling 311.

Follow these clear steps to file a 311 complaint against your landlord. The process takes about 5-7 minutes and lets you upload evidence right away. Always screenshot the confirmation page with your 311 service request number for records.

Visit 311.nyc.gov or download the NYC 311 app. The app has strong user ratings and works offline for drafting.
Select Housing from the categories, then pick your specific issue like hot water problems or building code violations.
Enter your apartment address. The system auto-fills the borough, such as Manhattan or Brooklyn.
Upload up to 3-5 photos, each no larger than 5MB. Show clear examples of leaks, rodents, or broken locks.
Add a detailed description. Aim for 200 words or more, noting dates, prior requests to your superintendent, and impacts on habitability.
Submit to get your instant Service Request number. Use it to track status later.

You can file anonymous 311 complaints if worried about retaliation. For emergencies like no heat in winter or electrical hazards, note it clearly to trigger faster HPD response. Track your complaint online anytime.

Filing by Phone (311 or 212-NYC-311)

Phone filing is ideal for emergencies like a heat complaint NYC or broken elevator NYC. Press 1 for Housing when you call 311, expect a 2-5 minute wait, and know it's available 24/7 in 240+ languages. This NYC 311 service connects you quickly to the Department of Housing Preservation and Development for HPD violations.

Use this step-by-step call script to file your 311 complaint against your landlord efficiently. First, dial 311 or 212-NYC-311. Then press 1 for housing issues, state your borough and building address right away, describe the violation and class like class B or C if known, provide your apartment number and contact info, and note the service request number read back to you.

Pro tip: Call from the location for easy address verification, especially for issues like pest infestation or mold in apartment. Average hold time was 3:42 minutes based on 2023 data. This method works well for emergency housing complaints such as leaking roof complaints or electrical hazard reports.

You can file an anonymous 311 complaint if preferred, though providing contact info helps track progress. After filing, use the 311 service request number to monitor status or follow up. Operators handle reports for habitability issues NYC, from hot water issues to superintendent unresponsive problems.

Filing In-Person at a 311 Service Center

Visit 5 borough service centers (Manhattan: 591 Broadway) when needing interpreter assistance or complex documentation for your 311 complaint against landlord. These centers offer hands-on help for filing a housing complaint NYC. Staff can guide you through reporting issues like heat complaints NYC or pest infestations.

Bring key items to speed up the process. Include ID, your lease, and printed photos of violations such as mold in apartment or broken elevators NYC. This helps create a strong record for HPD violations.

Centers are ideal for non-English speakers with on-site translators available. Expect wait times of 45-90 minutes, so plan ahead for non-emergency 311 calls. Use this option for detailed issues like illegal renovations or lead paint violations.

After filing, receive a 311 service request number to track your complaint. This method suits tenants facing habitability issues NYC under the warranty of habitability. Follow up if needed to ensure HPD inspections occur promptly.

Manhattan Service Center

The Manhattan center at 591 Broadway operates Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm. File your 311 complaint here for building code violations like leaking roofs. Staff assist with Department of Housing Preservation and Development reports.

Perfect for [rent stabilized](/blog/how-do-i-know-if-my-nyc-apartment-is-rent-stabilized) tenants reporting hot water issues. Bring evidence to support your report landlord violation. Get help escalating to order to correct violations.

Use this location for electrical hazard reports or smoke detector missing problems. Receive your complaint reference ID on-site. Track status later via phone or app.

Brooklyn Service Center

Located at 210 Joralemon St, open Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm. Ideal for Brooklyn residents filing NYC 311 service complaints about rodent control NYC. Submit photos of class A B C violations.

Staff help with bedbug infestation reports or garbage removal building issues. This center processes plumbing problems 311 efficiently. Note hours for timely visits.

Suitable for superintendent unresponsive cases or window guard violations. Obtain your 311 response time estimate here. Follow up on repair orders NYC.

Queens Service Center

Find it at 120-55 Queens Blvd for in-person 311 app NYC alternatives. Report fire safety violations or carbon monoxide detectors missing. Open standard business hours.

Great for Section 8 landlord issues or lock broken door complaints. Bring lease details for NYC housing laws verification. Get immediate inspection request HPD.

Handle noise complaints building or asbestos violations here. Staff provide tenant rights NYC guidance. Secure your 311 ticket for tracking.

Bronx Service Center

Visit 3030 Third Ave to file against property owner citations. Address eviction notice disputes or harassment by landlord. Monday to Friday availability.

Suits immediate hazard violations like retaliatory eviction reports. Present printed evidence for fine for violations. Receive service request details.

Use for multiple dwelling law breaches or illegal sublets. Experts recommend this for complex housing maintenance code issues. Track progress easily.

Staten Island Service Center

At 350 St. Mark's Pl, submit anonymous 311 complaints if preferred. Report DOB NOW complaints or zoning violation reports. Check hours before going.

Ideal for certificate of occupancy issues or basement apartment illegal. Bring ID and photos for NYC administrative code title 27 filings. Get reference ID instantly.

Process emergency repair program ERP requests here. Staff aid alternate enforcement program AEP cases. Follow up on your track 311 complaint status.

What Happens After Submission

HPD schedules inspections within 24 hours for Class C violations, 3 days for Class B, or 21 days for Class A per the Housing Maintenance Code. On Day 0, your 311 complaint creates a service request with a reference ID. You can track status online or by calling 311.

By Day 1-3, HPD assigns an inspector based on violation class, such as heat complaints in NYC or pest infestations. The on-site inspection occurs within Days 3-21. Inspectors document issues like mold in apartments or broken elevators.

Within Days 7-30, HPD issues a Notice of Violation (NOV) to your landlord if problems are confirmed. Landlords must correct Class C immediate hazards quickly, like no hot water issues. Tenants have rights under NYC housing laws to habitable conditions.

Prepare by noting details like leaking roof complaints or electrical hazards. Cooperate with access but avoid repairs yourself. Follow up on your 311 service request number if delays occur.

Inspection Process and Timelines

HPD inspectors use a 120-point checklist; they must access your unit, and tenant cooperation is legally required. The process has three phases: pre-inspection photo review, on-site visit lasting 30-45 minutes, and post-inspection actions. This applies to complaints like rodent control in NYC or smoke detector issues.

Violation Class	Response Timeline	Examples
Class C	24 hours	Immediate hazards like no heat or lead paint violations
Class B	3 days	Hazardous issues such as plumbing problems or mold
Class A	21 days	Non-hazardous like garbage removal or window guards

Clean access paths for inspectors, but do not fix violations like bedbug infestations yourself. During on-site checks, they measure issues and note building code violations. Post-inspection, expect an Order to Correct (OTC) or NOV within 48 hours.

Track your 311 complaint status via the app or website. Escalate if needed through borough housing offices. This ensures landlords face fines for unresolved habitability issues in NYC.

Landlord Response and Corrections

Landlords face $250-$2,000 fines per violation plus daily penalties after receiving a notice of violation (NOV) from the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD). The owner gets the NOV by certified mail. They must correct the issue within a set time frame based on the violation class.

For a typical Class B violation, such as a hot water issue or pest infestation, owners have 14 days to correct the problem. HPD then schedules a re-inspection to check compliance. Failure to fix it leads to fines and possible daily penalties.

Violation classes determine both correction timelines and fines. Class A violations carry fines from $0 to $250 and often need correction in 14 days too. Higher classes like C impose steeper penalties up to $2,000.

Violation Class	Fine Range	Typical Correction Time
Class A	$0-$250	14 days
Class B	$250-$750	14 days
Class C	$750-$2,000	21 days or less

If your landlord ignores the order to correct (OTC), check the Emergency Repair Program (ERP). The city steps in to fix urgent issues like a leaking roof or broken elevator. HPD then bills the owner double the repair costs.

Tracking Your Complaint Status

Check status anytime at 311.nyc.gov using your 8-digit Service Request number, updates every 24-48 hours. This online portal lets you see real-time progress on your housing complaint NYC against your landlord. Enter the number from your confirmation email or ticket to view details.

Three main methods help you track 311 complaint status: the online portal at 311.nyc.gov with a 'Check Status' option, app notifications via the 311 app NYC, and calling 311 + press 2. Choose based on your preference for web, mobile, or phone updates. Each method provides the same core information on your report landlord violation.

Status codes follow a clear path: Open means received, Assigned to an inspector from the Department of Housing Preservation and Development, Scheduled for inspection, and Closed after resolution. Enable email alerts during filing for automatic notifications on changes. This keeps you informed on issues like heat complaint NYC or pest infestations.

Average full resolution takes about 18 days for Class B violations, though times vary by issue severity. For emergency housing complaints like no heat in winter, expect faster 311 response time. Follow up if stalled to ensure your HPD violation leads to repairs.

Escalation Options if Unresolved

If no resolution in 21 days, call HPD Helpline at 212-863-6300 or file a 7A petition in Housing Court. This step helps address ongoing habitability issues NYC like mold in apartment or broken elevator NYC. Tenants often find success by documenting everything clearly.

Start the escalation ladder with simple actions after your initial 311 complaint. Re-filing with the same 311 service request number signals urgency to HPD. This works well for persistent problems such as pest infestation or hot water issues.

Next, contact your HPD Borough Office, like those in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, or Staten Island. They handle local building code violations and can schedule an inspection request HPD. For example, report a leaking roof complaint through this channel for faster response.

Move to the Emergency Repair Program or Alternate Enforcement Program if needed. These programs enforce repair orders NYC for class A, B, C violations or immediate hazard violations. Resources like Legal Aid Society at 212-577-3300 or Tenant Helpline at 212-962-4795 offer free guidance on next steps.

Re-file 311 using your complaint reference ID to track progress.
Visit HPD Borough Office for personalized help on NYC housing laws.
Apply for Emergency Repair Program ERP for urgent plumbing problems or electrical hazards.
File a 7A managed building petition with a $25 fee if superintendent unresponsive.
Seek Housing Court Order to Correct for severe warranty of habitability breaches.

Repeat filings often prompt quicker action from landlords facing property owner citations and fines for violations. Always keep records of calls to citywide complaint hotline or mobile app reporting via 311 app NYC.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I File a 311 Complaint Against My Landlord in NYC?

To file a 311 complaint against your landlord in NYC, call 311 (or 911 in emergencies) from your phone, or use the 311 website or NYC 311 mobile app. Provide details about the issue, such as building address, your apartment number, and a description of the problem like heat failure, leaks, or pests. NYC's 311 service will create a service request and dispatch Housing Maintenance inspectors if it's a violation of the Housing Maintenance Code.

What Types of Issues Can I Report with a 311 Complaint Against My Landlord in NYC?

You can file a 311 complaint against your landlord in NYC for housing code violations including no heat or hot water, plumbing issues, pest infestations, lead paint hazards, broken elevators, illegal conversions, or structural problems. Non-emergency issues like noise or garbage should also go through 311, which routes to the appropriate agency like the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD).

How Long Does It Take for a 311 Complaint Against My Landlord in NYC to Be Resolved?

Response times for a 311 complaint against your landlord in NYC vary: emergencies like no heat in winter get immediate attention, Class A (immediately hazardous) violations within 24 hours, Class B within 15 days, and Class C up to 30 days. Track your complaint online using the service request number provided when you file via 311.

Can My Landlord Retaliate If I File a 311 Complaint Against Them in NYC?

NYC law protects tenants from retaliation after filing a 311 complaint against your landlord. Retaliation like eviction threats, rent hikes, or service cutoffs within 6 months is illegal under Rent Stabilization laws and Housing Maintenance Code. Report suspected retaliation to HPD or the NYC Tenant Helpline at 212-962-4795.

What Happens After I File a 311 Complaint Against My Landlord in NYC?

After filing a 311 complaint against your landlord in NYC, HPD assigns an inspector who visits the property, documents violations, and issues a Notice of Violation (NOV) to the landlord with a correction deadline. If unresolved, fines up to $250,000 can apply, and repeat offenders face civil penalties or building closure. You can check status online at NYC.gov/311.

Is There an Online Way to File a 311 Complaint Against My Landlord in NYC Without Calling?

Yes, file a 311 complaint against your landlord in NYC online at portal.311.nyc.gov or via the 311 app. Select "Housing" category, enter your address and issue details, upload photos if available, and submit. You'll get a confirmation number to track progress, making it convenient without needing to call.