Show All Answers

1. What is a Residential Occupancy Permit (ROP)?

An ROP is a Residential Occupancy Permit. This document, issued by the Albany Department of Buildings & Regulatory Compliance, certifies that the unit has passed a basic safety inspection and can legally be rented out. Newly-issued ROP's are valid for 24 months (two years). 

You can look up whether your building has an ROP by clicking here.

2. How do I find out if my unit has a Residential Occupancy Permit (ROP)?

You can check the City's most recent list of valid Residential Occupancy Permits (ROP's) by clicking here.

If your apartment is missing an ROP, contact the Department of Buildings & Regulatory Compliance by phone at (518) 434-5995 or by email.

3. What do I do if my apartment has no ROP?

If your apartment is missing an ROP, contact the Department of Buildings & Regulatory Compliance by phone at (518) 434-5995 or by email.

4. What do I do if there is a code violation at my apartment?

If there is a code violation at your unit, try contacting your landlord first (if it is safe for you to do so). It is a good idea to request the repairs in writing, so that you will have documentation of your efforts to communicate with your landlord. 

If the code issues are not resolved, contact the Department of Buildings & Regulatory Compliance by phone at (518) 434-5995 or by email.

5. Where can I get help with rent?

The New York State Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) closed in November 2021. At this time, the primary provider of rental assistance in the community is United Tenants of Albany (UTA). UTA's Housing Hotline can be reached by calling (518) 436-8997 x3.

6. Where can I get help with utilities?

The Albany County of Social Services is currently accepting applications for utility payments through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). To learn more or apply, call (518) 447-7323 or email energy@albanycountyny.gov.

United Tenants of Albany (UTA) may also have some funding available to assist tenants with utility payments. To reach UTA, call (518) 436-8997 x3.