Published: March 9, 2010

Contract talks are underway for 30,000 city apartment building workers.

32BJ, the largest private sector union in New York, and the Realty Advisory Board are currently in negotiations.

The current contract, which is set to expire in April, covers doormen, superintendents, resident managers and other buildings workers throughout the boroughs.

Workers say they're looking for a wage increase and better benefits to keep up with the rising cost of living.

"Everything is more expensive in New York City. So there's always room for better wages, health care, pension. Pension is very important," said Local 32BJ member Salvadore Gonzales.

"The New York Real Estate industry, multi-billion dollar industry, surely has the capacity to provide its building workers with the contract they need to get by and make ends meet in this city," said Matt Nerzig of Local 32BJ.

The negotiation deadline is April 20th.

32BJ officials say if an agreement isn't reached the union could strike.

The president of the Realty Advisory board released a statement Tuesday, in which he says times are tough for everyone and that any agreement has to be fair for them as well.

Talks are scheduled to resume Wednesday March 17th.