Jakobson Properties - Hellish Experience

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/cSHJd)
Dear All,

The purpose of this post is to warn would-be renters of what they could face if they rent at Jakobson Properties. I personally did not do my research before moving in, and I'm paying for it now.

I moved into an apartment building owned by them in the East Village in November '07. Within a few days I discovered that the boiler room directly beneath the apartment creates a roar and vibration that makes the apartment unfit for living. Not only that, there is a hot water pipe in the bathroom that is misaligned causing clanging "detonations" when hot water meets steam. In addition there was some unknown connection with the boiler's burner to a pipe under the sink, causing a "locomotive" noise. This word - by the way - was invented by a maintenance person who finally deigned to visit.

I have suffered in hell for two months trying to get them to do something about this problem which wakes me up 3-4 times at night. But little has happened. They have merely given me one excuse after another, to no avail. I stay at work long extra hours merely because the boiler noises are maddening.

As a last resort I informed them that I will be withholding rent, which resulted in someone from their office calling with dire threats.

I have called in an acoustic expert to prove my case and he has prepared me a report showing that the noise and vibration violate all NYC Housing Codes. This cost $1450.

I sent them messages about me wanting to end the lease and move out, but there has been no response.

I am now going to move out on my own.

Take my advice and STAY AWAY from their buildings. These people are the scum of the earth.

It is possible you might have no problem with them, but chances of getting unluckly with them are worse than at other places. And, if you get unlucky - they will really make you suffer.

DO NOT TAKE A CHANCE WITH YOUR PEACE OF MIND AND QUALITY OF LIFE.