APARTMENT DAMAGE

When the landlord's workers installed new windows in our building recently, the workers removed my air conditioner, but they didn't put it back after they finished. They also left the paint and plaster on my walls badly chipped. Who is responsible for taking care of this?

                                                                      J.D., Astoria

Once the installation was complete, the workers should have returned your apartment back to its original condition. However, when it comes to equipment, if the tenant purchased and installed the equipment, the tenant is responsible. If the equipment existed in the apartment when you first moved in, then your landlord is responsible.

Perhaps, the new windows are not the same size as the old ones and that is the reason the landlord's workers did not put back the air conditioner. If that is the case, your landlord will not be responsible for refitting the equipment to the new windows, especially if the refit could cause damage.

My best advice to you is to contact your landlord before you do anything.