June 30, 2026
Tenants say they were notified months after illnesses were confirmed and want a timeline for water system remediation.
NEW YORK, NY — Residents of an East Village apartment building are demanding answers from city officials and building management after two tenants contracted Legionnaires’ disease and the building’s water system was identified as the likely source of exposure.
According to notices distributed by NYC Health + Hospitals, two residents were diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease within the past year. The agency informed tenants that it is working with the building’s management to remediate the water system, but acknowledged that the process could take months. Residents say they did not learn about the contamination until last month.
The delayed notification has left many tenants questioning when city officials first became aware of the illnesses, whether routine inspections identified any warning signs, and what steps are being taken to ensure the building’s water is safe.
“Residents deserve clear, timely information when there’s a potential public health risk in their own homes,” said New York Legionnaires’ disease attorney Ronald J. Katter. “People have a right to know when officials became aware of these cases, how the source was identified, what remediation has been completed, and when the building’s water system will be considered safe.”
Katter said public records should establish:
- When the building’s water system was last inspected.
- Whether previous testing detected Legionella bacteria.
- When city officials first linked the illnesses to the building.
- Why residents were not notified sooner.
- What specific remediation steps are underway and when they are expected to be completed.
“The lack of transparency is raising legitimate concerns among residents,” Katter said. “When people’s health is involved, communication should be prompt, complete, and consistent.”
Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia, is contracted by inhaling aerosolized water droplets containing Legionella bacteria. Cooling towers, hot tubs, and other warm-water systems are common sources. According to the CDC, most outbreaks are preventable with proper water-system maintenance and monitoring.
Residents say they are seeking a detailed timeline from city officials and building management outlining the investigation, remediation efforts, and ongoing testing to ensure the safety of the building’s water system.
If you or someone you know has been sickened or injured as a result of Legionnaires’ Disease, contact the “Legionnaires’ Lawyer” — Ronald Katter. Mr. Katter and his firm will help you protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, contact us at (212) 809-4293 or visit our contact page.