Super-less building- whom to contact if issues arise? (apartment, renter)

[Eaglestar92]

Hi all,

I'm moving up from Virginia to (tentatively) a small pre-war on the UES. Until now, each building I've lived in has had it's own, live-in super (or at least an on-site manager.) My new building (co-op) has only 8 units; thus, no super of any kind. I plan to discuss with the unit owner/co-op board about courses of action to take in case of issues (leaks, vermin, etc.), but I was curious ahead of time how things generally go. In such a small building, is upkeep (janitorial, etc.) generally a responsibility of the building at large? And how do larger issues generally get dealt with?

Any info would be appreciated. Thanks.

[randomperson2]

Renter or owner?

[BugsyPal]

You'll find out when speaking to co-op board before moving in.

For rentals off site supers usually visit at least once per day to take out trash, sweep/hose down sidewalk, sweep/vacuum common lobby/hall areas. If tenants have issues they either contact LL/managing agent, and or there is a way to reach super (beeper, text, cell phone, email....).

Some small buildings on UES and elsewhere the owner acts as super. He either lives in or near the building(s) and comes by daily....


For a co-op or condo similar arrangements may be in place, or residents may be expected to deal with issues like taking out trash, sweeping sidewalk, etc... themselves. When larger issues arise (vermin, plumbing, locksmith needed, etc....) there are people either on contract or someone is just called out.

Supers are expensive, and many small buildings on UES and or elsewhere in city have an off site guy who pops round. Over years more and more smaller buildings are going this route when old school elderly supers die or retire. They can also get income from renting out what once was given away free (the super's apartment), if they go with someone off site.

For a condo or co-op again there are savings to be had if everyone just pitches in and they don't hire a full time or even live out super.

[silverbullnyc]

It’s normal here in NYc for some supers to not live in a building. Probably lives a few blocks away. The apt owner and or management office should supply you with this info prior to move in.

[BBMW]

They should have a managing agent, unless the self manage. In that case, the contact would be the board president. In point of fact, buildings are required to have a 24/7 contact who lives in a short distance from the building. But it could be someone in the building who only serves as the contact.