Inside the East Village housing battle between communal tenants and their landlord

"Peterson Beckwith, a long-term resident, expressed his concerns, stating, 'I feel Geylik is trying to force me out of my room through systematic abuse. The premises are being intentionally left in disrepair to deem the building unsafe.'"

"Beckwith further elaborated on the impact of the landlord's actions, saying, 'After the landlord tore out the interiors of the apartments below mine, my floors became extremely cold. I have had to walk down a flight upstairs just to use the bathroom.'"

Tenants at 109 East 9th St. are embroiled in a conflict with their landlord, Michael Geylik, over allegations of harassment and unsafe living conditions. The building, under new ownership since June 2021, has seen numerous complaints filed regarding its deteriorating state. Many communal facilities have been removed, leaving tenants struggling with inadequate living conditions. Long-term resident Peterson Beckwith claims the landlord is intentionally neglecting the property to force tenants out. A partial vacate order was issued due to unsafe conditions in one apartment, highlighting ongoing issues within the building.

Read at www.amny.com