Sunset Park owner struggles with debt years after devastating fire
The Department of Housing Preservation and Development says it is looking into the matter.
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Nearly three years after a fire tore through her Sunset Park building, Ledys Velez is still grappling with the financial burden of the destruction.
The fire erupted on the fourth floor of the building on Mother’s Day in 2022, leaving Velez and her family without a home.
Since then, the cost of rebuilding has only continued to rise.
She initially believed her insurance payout would cover the extensive damages, estimated at $700,000.
However, after completing the necessary paperwork, she was shocked to learn she would receive $300,000 less than expected.
Her daughter, Janett Perez, said the family has been managing the rebuilding process on their own, facing mounting pressures from the city.
“Everything has been managed by us, which is very challenging because a lot of demands are being made by the city,” Perez said.
The Velez family has remained up to date on building expenses, but they say the financial strain has become overwhelming.
Now, they are seeking guidance from the city on how to move forward.
“Our city has let us down and destroyed us in our family, and I’m just imploring the city to take it easy on us,” Perez added.
Velez, who planned to retire two years ago, is still working tirelessly to make ends meet.
Despite the uphill battle, she remains determined to one day call her building home again.
The Department of Housing Preservation and Development says it is looking into the matter.
News 12 also reached out to the Department of Buildings and is awaiting a response.
