NYC Housing Court Glossary
Counterclaim
Plain EnglishYou fight back — and ask the judge to make the landlord pay you
Legal Definition
A legal claim you assert against the landlord within the eviction case. Common counterclaims include: breach of warranty of habitability (rent abatement), harassment, and illegal fees. A successful counterclaim can reduce or eliminate the amount you owe.
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Practical Tip
Don't just defend. If your landlord ignored repairs or broke the law, you may be owed money.
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