AIA New York Statement of Support for Suspension or Deferment of Rent and Eviction

The COVID-19 crisis has seriously imperiled the financial stability of many businesses in New York State, including architecture firms. Much-needed regulation limiting and/or stopping almost all construction activity, coupled with clients suspending and/or canceling projects due to financial uncertainty, has significantly limited work opportunities. While government financial support has been helpful, expenses for firms remain burdensome.

Commercial rent is straining the finances of businesses that currently have little to no income. The dining, retail, and hospitality sectors have been particularly hard hit, much to the detriment of New York City. Many architecture firms that serve these and other important parts of the economy have suffered greatly as well, as they currently have little to no revenue. While some landlords have been forgiving, many have been unwilling to provide any leeway for their struggling tenants.

Therefore, AIA New York is expressing its strong support for legislation to suspend or defer commercial rent payments during the current health and financial crisis. This would provide critically helpful assistance to companies and businesses throughout the city. The risks are too great if architecture firms begin folding; affordable housing, public works, historic preservation, and other crucial areas of architectural work would be hampered by the loss of significant numbers of architecture firms.

We strongly support those efforts in the New York State Legislature to eliminate or defer the burden of financial rent. During this financial crisis, our government must do everything it can to support our local economy and keep architecture firms and other businesses afloat.