Rent basement apt that's not legal that would reduce any potential risks as landlord?

[Dennis Gallof]

Hi,

I know what I'm asking is not legal, but it also doesn't stop the 30,000+ not legal apartments that currently provide a home for families in Queens, NYC that would otherwise not be able to afford to live there.

I'm just trying to see, as a landlord, are there certain steps I can take to reduce any potential risks I could face for renting out the apartment? Should I have a lease agreement in place with the tenant? Is there certain verbiage I could include in the lease or another written document I should have in place? Etc.?

The building was built prior to 1938, so there is no certificate of occupancy issued; not sure if that helps me at all.

Thank you.