By JAKE PEARSON, Associated Press

NEW YORK (AP) — A lawsuit filed in New York City claims seniors and disabled tenants are being forced out of their apartments by landlords who are increasingly converting rentals into lucrative condos and co-ops.

Seventy-one-year Walter Goldsmith says the case was inspired by his own experience fighting real-estate giant Related Companies.

Goldsmith didn't want to buy when Related announced last year that his Upper East Side Manhattan apartment building was to be converted into condos. But he claims the company never offered him the chance to stay in his apartment as a renter despite a state law requiring that option for the disabled and people 62 and older.

A spokeswoman says the company scrupulously follows statutes and regulations.

Experts say rental conversions are increasingly common amid soaring New York City real estate costs.