What is the security deposit limit in New York?

Since 2019, New York limits security deposits to one month rent maximum for all residential rentals statewide. Landlords cannot collect additional fees like last month rent upfront.

How long do I have to return a security deposit in New York?

You must return the security deposit within 14 days of the tenant vacating. You must provide an itemized statement of any deductions.

What is rent stabilization in New York?

Rent stabilization limits how much landlords can increase rent annually (set by the Rent Guidelines Board). It applies to buildings with 6+ units built before 1974 in NYC and some surrounding counties.

How long does eviction take in New York?

Evictions in NYC can take 2-6 months or longer due to tenant protections and Housing Court procedures. Upstate evictions are typically faster.

Can I refuse to renew a lease in New York?

For rent-stabilized units, you generally must renew. For market-rate units, you can decline to renew with proper notice (30-90 days depending on tenancy length).

What are the notice requirements for rent increases in New York?

For tenancies over 1 year, you must give 30 days notice for increases under 5%, 60 days for increases of 5% or more. Rent-stabilized increases are set annually.

All States

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.

New York Metro Areas

New York City

Avg 2BR: $3,312/mo

Manhattan

Avg 2BR: $4,547/mo

Brooklyn

Avg 2BR: $3,226/mo

Queens

Avg 2BR: $2,771/mo

Buffalo

Avg 2BR: $1,342/mo

Rochester

Avg 2BR: $1,386/mo

Albany

Avg 2BR: $1,537/mo

Frequently Asked Questions

Additional Resources

NYC Rent Guidelines Board NY State Division of Housing

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