Question 1

How do I find the best apartments in NYC?

Accepted Answer

Use StreetSmart to search any NYC address and see building quality scores based on 16 data points including violations, safety, landlord history, and maintenance. Compare buildings side-by-side and view neighborhood rankings to find the best apartments.

Question 2

How can I check if an apartment is bad before renting?

Accepted Answer

Search the address on StreetSmart to run a free building background check. You'll see violation history, open complaints, landlord ratings, and a building quality score that compares it to every other building in NYC.

Question 3

What are the worst neighborhoods in NYC for renters?

Accepted Answer

StreetSmart ranks all 123 NYC neighborhoods by average building quality. Currently, Washington Heights, Inwood, and Hamilton Heights have the lowest scores due to higher violation rates. View the full neighborhood rankings on our site.

Question 4

How do I look up a landlord in NYC?

Accepted Answer

Search any building address on StreetSmart to see landlord information, their full portfolio of buildings, and a landlord report card showing their track record across all properties they own.

Question 5

Is my apartment rent stabilized?

Accepted Answer

Search your address on StreetSmart to check rent stabilization status. Buildings built before 1974 with 6+ units are likely rent stabilized. We show this status along with unit counts and building history.

Question 6

What is a building quality score?

Accepted Answer

StreetSmart calculates a 0-100 building quality score based on 16 data points including violation history, Class C (hazardous) violations, landlord track record, maintenance history, permit activity, and more. Higher scores indicate better-maintained buildings.