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New York Landlord Guide

Everything you need to know about landlord-tenant laws, security deposits, eviction procedures, and property management in New York.

Security Deposit
1 month rent maximum
Return Period
14 days after tenant vacates
Non-Payment Notice
14-day rent demand notice required
Rent Control
Yes

New York Rental Market Overview

New York has one of the most heavily regulated rental markets in the country, particularly in New York City. The 2019 Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act significantly strengthened tenant protections statewide. NYC has over 1 million rent-stabilized apartments. Upstate markets like Buffalo, Rochester, and Albany offer more landlord-friendly conditions with lower regulations. Despite complexity, NYC offers high rents and strong demand.

Security Deposit Rules

Maximum Deposit

1 month rent maximum (statewide since 2019)

Return Timeline

14 days after tenant vacates

Allowed Deductions

  • Unpaid rent
  • Damage beyond normal wear and tear
  • Reasonable costs documented in writing

Eviction Process

Notice Periods

Non-Payment of Rent
14-day rent demand notice required
Lease Violation
10-day notice to cure, then 30-day termination notice
Month-to-Month Termination
30 days (under 1 year) or 60 days (1-2 years) or 90 days (over 2 years)

Court Process

After notice expires, file petition in Housing Court. Court process can take 2-6 months in NYC due to tenant protections and court backlogs.

Rent Control Information

Rent stabilization applies to buildings with 6+ units built before 1974 in NYC. 2019 law removed vacancy decontrol and limits rent increases.

Cities with Local Rent Control:

New York CityNassau CountyWestchester CountyRockland County

Required Landlord Disclosures

New York law requires landlords to provide the following disclosures to tenants:

  • Lead-based paint (pre-1978 buildings)
  • Bed bug infestation history
  • Smoking policy
  • Sprinkler system info
  • Flood zone status
  • Air contamination (if applicable)

Late Fee Rules

Capped at $50 or 5% of monthly rent (whichever is less) for rent-stabilized units. Must provide 5-day grace period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Manage New York Properties with UnitHub

Stay compliant with New York landlord-tenant laws. UnitHub helps you track security deposits, send proper notices, and automate rent collection.