New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani is having a very busy week. Just one day after announcing “click-to-cancel” rules targeting companies such as Adobe, Mamdani is cracking down on “deceptive landlord practices” such as the use of AI-generated or AI-edited images to make a property look more appealing.
Mamdani and his team today released the Rental Rip-Off Report, outlining recommendations for governments to require landlords and real estate agents to disclose, including images, the use of AI to tamper with properties.
Alongside measures such as recognizing tenant unions and increasing tenants’ bargaining rights, the report also says landlords should “publicly announce changes to rental properties using artificial intelligence and other digital tools.”
Misleading AI-generated and AI-edited images in real estate listings are a growing problem in New York City and beyond. While the results can sometimes be amusing, if not horrifying, there is nothing strange about tenants getting scammed when reality and property photos don’t match. This is especially problematic for tenants who need to sign leases remotely, such as if they’re moving somewhere for a new job.
“At rental rip-off hearings across five boroughs, we heard the voices of thousands of New Yorkers living with mold that was never treated, pests that were never addressed, and fees that were never explained. Listening was only the first step, and this report turns those stories into concrete action. More Request disclosure of lists modified by AI By bringing our law enforcement system into the 21st century and finally recognizing tenant associations, we are making clear that all New Yorkers have the right to a safe home. And all landlords who refuse to provide housing will be held accountable,” Mamdani added emphatically.
“…these policies are rooted in real-life experience and address real concerns,” added Leila Bozorg, Deputy Mayor for Housing and Planning.
“The Rent Rip-off Hearing and today’s report are marking a new chapter in tenant power in New York City. Governance is a partnership. By taking unprecedented steps to bring tenant voices directly into policy and encourage tenant organizing across the city, we are showing what New Yorker governance looks like,” said Shea Weaver, director of the Mayor’s Office for Tenant Protection.
After establishing the Rental Rip-Off Hearing Board in his first week in office, Mayor Mamdani met with 2,400 New Yorkers in each borough to hear about the issues facing a wide range of people. Safety and living conditions were a major focus, as were deceptive practices by landlords.
image creditsPhoto courtesy of Mayor Mamdani’s office.
