Residents of 515 Cathedral Parkway in New York City have accused landlord Fred Ohebshalom of neglecting the building and driving out long-time regulated tenants in order to increase rent and profit. The building has experienced severe flooding, extended periods without gas, and a broken elevator for eight months. Ohebshalom, whose relative Daniel Ohebshalom was recently indicted for tenant harassment, has a history of allegations of poor management practices, including terrorizing tenants into leaving so their apartments can be renovated and rented out at a higher rate.
Despite ongoing complaints and legal action, tenants at 515 Cathedral Parkway continue to face neglect and mistreatment under Ohebshalom’s management. Recent flooding in the building caused damage to personal property and rendered apartments uninhabitable for months. Poorly executed repairs have led to mold issues, and residents feel that management cuts corners and prioritizes profit over the well-being of tenants. The situation has become so dire that some fear they will not be able to maintain their homes or afford to continue fighting against their landlord.
Over the years, tenants have seen a decline in the quality of living conditions at 515 Cathedral Parkway, as well as efforts by management to push out long-time residents in favor of higher-paying tenants. The neglect and mistreatment suffered by tenants have taken a toll on their physical and mental health, causing stress and anxiety. Many long-time residents have been forced out, leading to high turnover in the building. Some tenants, including elderly individuals, have been threatened with eviction and have had to take legal action to ensure their rights are respected.
In response to allegations of neglect and harassment, Ohebshalom’s company Empire Management denies any knowledge of mistreatment and claims to be working hard to address maintenance issues and improve the building. However, tenants continue to allege ongoing problems and mistreatment at the hands of management. Despite a settlement reached in a lawsuit filed by the city over violations at the building, residents feel that Ohebshalom has not held up his end of the agreement and continues to neglect the property. The situation at 515 Cathedral Parkway highlights the challenges faced by tenants in dealing with negligent and abusive landlords.
The ongoing struggles at 515 Cathedral Parkway underscore broader issues of tenant rights and housing affordability in New York City. Many residents, including low-income individuals and families, face similar challenges in dealing with landlords who prioritize profit over the well-being of their tenants. The case of Ohebshalom and 515 Cathedral Parkway serves as a reminder of the importance of holding landlords accountable for their actions and advocating for stronger tenant protections. It also highlights the need for affordable and safe housing options for all residents, regardless of income or background.
