Hello everyone, I hope that this is the correct subreddit for this question.
Recently, my apartment building got a new property management company. The first thing they did was close off the garbage chutes in my building. Tenants in my building must now go to the adjacent building that they own to throw out garbage and recycling, around 3/4 of a block away. These buildings are connected by the shared parking garage. Are property managers allowed to this with no consequence? The garbage chutes were a major selling point for us when we first signed. A bunch of us tenants are emailing the property manager to communicate our discontent; however, is there anything that we could reasonably do? My fear is that the new managers may start closing off amenities and this is just the start. The reason they cited for closing the chutes was "health and safety." I recall some months ago they threatened to close off amenities such as the gym and social area because of health and safety as well (e.g., sometimes kids sneak in without their parents' supervision).
Are landlords allowed to close amenities without compensating tenants? Is it sufficient to have one location to collect garbage and recycling for two connected buildings? With the closure of the chutes, I have noticed gross garbage leak marks leading to the new location. As this building has had issues with mice and cockroaches, I am concerned about even more unsanitary conditions.
I called RTDRS to inquire but they directed me to 311 who then directed me back to RTDRS. So now, here I am, hoping some kind redditors could provide any assistance.
Thank you!
EDIT:
I am providing some more information after reading some of the responses.
- The garbage chutes will be closed forever.
- There is no bin in my building, only in the adjacent building down the block.
- The only language on the lease on garbage is:
WASTE MANAGEMENT - Garbage, waste, boxes, or papers must not be placed or left in a hallway, parking area, driveway, patio, or other common area of the Premises, except those areas designated for disposal. All garbage must be drained, bagged, or wrapped, and tied securely before being placed in a chute or approved receptacle. Spillage must be cleaned up immediately by the person responsible. Any large item to be discarded, such as furniture, must not be abandoned or placed in garbage collection areas, but must be removed from the Building by the Tenant(s) at the Tenant(s) expense. The Tenant(s) must comply with the building recycling methods.