Mott Haven women says unwanted rats are living in her home

A resident at the Mott Haven Houses says unwanted rats are living in her home and she's fed up with the neglect she feels from NYCHA.

Valerie Ryan

Nov 25, 2024, 11:20 AM

Updated 10 days ago

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A resident at the Mott Haven Houses says unwanted rats are living in her home and she's fed up with the neglect she feels from NYCHA.
Joann Torres says she's lived in the Mott Haven Houses for the last 18 years.
She says within the last five years she's had issues with mice and rats, even claiming she's gone to the hospital after being bitten.
Now, Torres says for the last two months, her home has been infested with rats.
She calls the rats aggressive, big and bold.
She tells News 12 she calls the NYCHA office almost every day, submits complaints through 311 and the housing portal, but she's left her in the dark.
"They need to listen to us, they don't care. They sit in their office and just want to earn a check." said Torres.
Torres mentions exterminators have been coming to the apartment, but the issue continues to persist.
News 12 reached out to NYCHA for an interview—they sent us this statement.
"NYCHA staff area aware of the issues regarding pests at this apartment and are actively working to address the situation. We have inspected and treated the apartment multiple times this month and will continue to work with the resident to find a lasting solution. Residents in need of assistance are encouraged to call the Customer Contact Center at 718-707-7771 or submit work tickets through the MyNYCHA application."