Edwards v. "Roe"

The question for decision is whether chastity is a prerequisite to maintenance of the landlord-tenant relationship.

Bespondent, an unmarried lady, lives in rent-controlled premises owned by petitioner. For reasons best left unspoken, petitioner concluded, in October, 1971, that respondent had, from time to time over the preceding several months, engaged in sexual intercourse with a certain gentleman. Acting promptly, petitioner served upon respondent a “notice of termination of tenancy ’ ’ on the ground that she had used the premises for “ illicit relations.” Bespondent declined to vacate,…