Predatory Landlord Asaf Elkayam Busted for Student Rent Scams in Albany

New York Attorney General Letitia James has shut down landlord Asaf Elkayam, owner of Jerusalem Management LLC, for systematically exploiting University at Albany students through exorbitant fees and deceptive leasing practices.

The OAG’s probe revealed Elkayam’s company charged illegal application fees, imposed unreasonable late payments and cleaning costs, and permitted unauthorized access to tenants’ apartments without notice. In a settlement, Elkayam is compelled to pay $8,000 in penalties, alter future lease agreements, and respect tenant rights.

‘Asaf Elkayam took advantage of his tenants, many of whom were young, first-time renters,’ stated Attorney General James. ‘New Yorkers deserve secure housing without fear of predatory landlords. My office will protect them from such unfair practices and enforce the law.’

Jerusalem Management owns 85 buildings with over 200 rental units in Albany, targeting primarily students living near the University at Albany campus. The investigation into Elkayam’s company was initiated in 2022 following complaints to the City of Albany. Unfair lease provisions included charging excessive cleaning fees and allowing entry without consent.

Elkayam is now mandated to remove deceptive clauses from leases, notify tenants prior to entering their homes, and adhere strictly to legal fee limits. He must also distribute OAG’s Residential Tenants’ Rights Guide to new and renewing tenants.

This action follows a series of AG James’ initiatives against housing discrimination and unfair practices. Recent successes include stopping discrimination by landlords Greg and John Karian and providing $970,000 in grants for fair housing testing and enforcement in the Capital Region. AG James has been relentless in ensuring New York’s tenants are protected from predatory landlords.

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