Spread across a large campus in Canarsie, Breukelen Houses is a classic mid-century NYCHA complex: red-brick towers, long interior walkways, and heavily used stairways and entrances connecting courtyards, parking areas, and community spaces. The scale is part of its identity, of course. Thousands of residents rely on consistent lighting, working elevators, intact handrails, and safe sidewalks every day. When upkeep slips anywhere along that network, small defects turn into serious injuries.
Why the Spelling Looks “Wrong”
The development’s name nods to Brooklyn’s roots. “Breukelen” is named after an old Dutch town and was originally spelled that way; NYCHA kept the historic version for this Canarsie complex.
Why You Should Contact a Lawyer as Soon as It’s Safe
NYCHA claims follow municipal procedures with strict, front-loaded steps. If time allows, call a lawyer before filing a complaint or speaking to any claims representatives.
- Notice of Claim generally due within 90 days of the incident
- A General Municipal Law 50-h hearing may be scheduled shortly after
- Lawsuit deadline is typically one year and ninety days from the incident (limited exceptions)
An attorney can help with all of this as well as preserve building video and work orders, identify all responsible parties , for example NYCHA and private contractors, prepare you for the 50-h hearing, and file suit on time. Errors or delays can limit or prevent compensation recovery.
Common Hazards at NYCHA Developments
- Elevator misleveling, sudden stops, and entrapments
- Dark hallways and stairwells or broken exterior lighting
- Leaks, ceiling collapses, falling plaster, or façade debris
- Loose handrails, broken treads, and obstructed stairwells
- Defective self-closing doors that fail to latch, increasing fire and smoke spread
What to Do Right Now
- Get medical care and follow your provider’s instructions.
- Photograph and video the hazard, the surrounding area, lighting, and weather.
- Save damaged footwear/clothing and keep receipts for out-of-pocket costs.
- Note witness names, apartment or building numbers, and any complaint/incident numbers.
- Contact an attorney quickly to serve the Notice of Claim, request records, and secure footage.
How The Dearie Law Firm, P.C. Can Help Injured Breukelen Houses Residents
For more than three decades, our firm has represented New Yorkers injured on NYCHA properties throughout the city and housing system. We investigate the scene, preserve evidence, manage the Notice of Claim and 50-h process, and pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, whether by settlement or in court.
Free Case Review
If you were hurt at Breukelen Houses or any NYCHA development in Brooklyn, contact The Dearie Law Firm, P.C. today. There is limited time to act.