NEW YORK — New Yorkers who trusted Extra Space Storage to safeguard their belongings may soon get some relief. On Tuesday, the city filed a landmark lawsuit against the national self-storage chain (NYSE:EXR), alleging widespread bait-and-switch pricing, vermin-infested units, hidden fees, and other predatory practices across its roughly 60 locations in the city. The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) is seeking full restitution for affected customers and more than $5 million in civil penalties.

The lawsuit stems from more than 100 complaints reviewed by DCWP, which found that Extra Space frequently lured customers with low introductory rates only to sharply increase fees after move-in. Some tenants reported being denied access to their units due to changed locks, charged undisclosed “junk fees,” or threatened with the auction of their belongings. Many facilities were described as unsanitary, with mold, water damage, and vermin infestations, creating unsafe conditions for stored property.

“This lawsuit aims to shut down Extra Space’s deceptive scheme and send a clear message to the self-storage industry,” said DCWP Commissioner Sam Levine. Deputy Mayor for Economic Justice Julie Su added that the administration is committed to rooting out corporate greed and protecting New Yorkers from exploitative practices.

Extra Space has received more complaints than any other self-storage provider in New York City. The lawsuit also comes as the city prepares to license all self-storage facilities under Local Law 171 of 2025, which takes effect in August 2026, requiring operators to comply with city standards for safety, transparency, and fair pricing.

Council officials praised the move. “Many New Yorkers rely on self-storage as a necessary solution to limited living space or sudden changes to their living situations,” said Council Speaker Julie Menin. “They deserve facilities that are transparent, reliable, and fully compliant with the law.”