A group living in a NYCHA building is speaking out because they say it has taken months to get their gas back on.

Gas Stove.Photo byDim HouonUnsplash

The residents of the Bedford-Stuyvesant homes in Lafayette Gardens say they have opened many tickets with NYCHA, but the gas problem has still not been fixed.

According to NYCHA, no gas service has been available at Lafayette Gardens since April 8. This currently affects 156 homes, but residents say the problems have been going on for much longer.

Gas service interruptions and restorations are necessary for public safety. They involve many people and steps, such as turning off service, making repairs and inspections, and working with the service providers to get the service back up and running as soon as safely possible. The housing authority said in a statement that these steps are being taken at 433 Lafayette Avenue right now.

Fixing Gas Leaks In Older Buildings Could Take Longer

It was said that residents were given a hot plate to use while the repairs were being made.

The Housing Authority posted a letter in the lobby of the building, telling residents that fixing gas leaks in older buildings is a long process that can take up to three months.

Officials say that asbestos needs to be tested for and cleaned up before gas can be turned back on.

Checking Lines In Every Apartment

The NYCHA's Environmental Unit will check every apartment's lines on Saturday.

A man who claimed to be a resident leader at Lafayette Gardens said he has been speaking up for the families.
Officials at NYCHA said they don't offer rent breaks, but residents are determined to be heard.