Learn to Live Better, a Housing Law Podcast.

Welcome to the Learn to Live Better, a Housing Law Podcast (formerly known as the Tenant Law Podcast), where we talk about new, interesting, and/or important legal cases and laws affecting New York City tenants and occupants. Listen on AppleSpotifyYoutube, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

 

As of summer 2026, we have over 60 episodes available to educate you about housing law in New York City, and more on the way. Click here for a searchable list of topics.

 

Learn to Live Better was nominated in 2025 by the New York Podcast Awards in the category of Best Public Service Podcast!

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You may have rights to an apartment you live in even if you are not the tenant and the lease is not in your name; And what is the difference between a licensee and a squatter?

Jul 17, 2023

In Episode 12 we discuss the many situations where a person living in an apartment is not the tenant and the lease is not in that occupant’s name, but nevertheless, the person has rights and is entitled to a very specific notice before an owner may start eviction proceedings. We look at a case that was dismissed when the owner described the occupant as a “squatter”, when he was a “licensee”.

The facts of your situation give rise to your legal interest in the apartment. Your legal interest in the apartment gives rise to the type of notice you are entitled to. The purpose of the notice is so you can understand your rights and figure out your defenses. Lawsuits are not supposed to be surprises!

Listen on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube. Please post to your socials, you might not need this exact info today, but someone else might!

Ask us your questions at [email protected].

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