KEY POINT SUMMARY
• Tenant pays 100 Dollar rent and has avoided eviction for over 10 years
• Adopted by the dying tenant to inherit the rent-controlled apartment
• Neighbors allege chaos, Airbnb guests, and threats
• Landlords claim health decline from prolonged legal battle
• Loopholes, legal aid, and rent laws protect her stay
A 100 Dollar rent tenant in Queens is making headlines after fighting off eviction for over a decade. Maria DeTommaso, 74, has outlasted five judges and continues to occupy her apartment rent-free as legal protections shield her.
Inheritance Secured The 100 Dollar Rent Deal
Back in 2002, DeTommaso moved in with longtime tenant Nicholas “Uncle Nicky” DeTommaso. Just days before his death in 2009, he legally adopted her. That move helped her inherit rights to the lease and its stunningly low rent.
The state eventually granted her full tenancy, locking in the 100 dollar rent despite rising market prices.
Neighbors Furious Over Tenant’s Behavior
Locals accuse DeTommaso of abusing her lease. She allegedly hosted Airbnb guests, changed building locks, and brought in unstable tenants.
“She terrorizes everyone,” said neighbor Anjanie Narine. “It’s a nightmare.”
Legal Loopholes Block Eviction Efforts
Because her eviction case remains active, she doesn’t have to pay her 100 dollar rent. According to New York law, tenants in litigation can withhold rent until the matter is resolved.
DeTommaso’s legal aid attorney represents her at no cost, while landlords Sugrim and Kowsila Outar—both in their 80s—say they’re exhausted.
Repairs Ignored As Health Claims Surface
DeTommaso blames the landlords for poor conditions. She says the oven doesn’t work and that she broke her hip due to faulty flooring.
However, the owners argue she blocks licensed workers and hires unauthorized contractors who charge them directly.
Elderly Owners Say 100 Dollar Rent Fight Is Draining Them
The landlords claim the long legal war has taken years off their lives. “They’re frail and tired,” Narine said. “This case is ruining them.”
Still, DeTommaso shows no signs of backing down. “I have every right to be here,” she said. “They just want me gone.”
