Cannot pay rent. NY

[Federick101]

Hi All,
I'm hoping someone here can help. Unfortunately, my sister is having trouble paying her rent. Her husband lost his job and they have 2 children ( age: 5 and 7 ). She is seeking for public assistance, but they told here that the system is changing and that they will not cover 100%, maybe just 25% of the rent. This was 3 weeks ago and her case worker said it will take about another 3-4 weeks to get things working.

This was explain to the landlord and he was given the contact number of the case worker.
But everyday at 8:30pm he knocks on the door looking for his rent. Now he's yelling in the hallway so that other tenants can hear their conversation. He says that the tenants have a right to know who's not paying their rent in the building.

I advise her to get a lawyer, but I don't know if this is necessary.
Also her lease expired in June of 2007.
Should she lawyer up?
In NYC, what tenant’s right does she have in this issue?

Thank you.

 

[BL]

http://www.oag.state.ny.us/realestate/tenants_rights_guide.html

I know of no changes in State assistance , but the State only allows up to a limit for rent .
If the applicant has enough cash assistance to cover the rent , the rent can go on voucher to the Landlord .

The Landlord has a choice to work with the DSS worker or not .

If the rent is not paid , the landlord can bring an eviction .

At the time of eviction , the tenant could apply for Emergency assistance from DSS .

There is also the Salvation Army , red cross , church organization , etc. to help in short term help .

The landlord is doing nothing illegal by demanding rent , although the tenant could write a nice letter to the LL , requesting the LL work with them , and please do not come to the door everyday , and keep communications in writing .

I'm not sure if the LL's continued knocking or yelling could be considered harassment , but if the tenant was to warn him of it , you could be almost sure of eviction .