New York Landlord-Tenant Law

When it comes to New York rental laws, there are a few specifics landlords need to know:

1. Evictions – If a tenant fails to pay rent, the landlord must give them 14 days to pay. If they fail to pay their rent, the landlord may begin eviction proceedings. If the tenant violates the lease, they must be given 30 days to amend the violation before an eviction lawsuit can be filed. A judge may postpone an eviction for up to one year if the tenant cannot find a similar residence in the same neighborhood. 
2. Heat Season – Heat Season is the period between October 1st and May 31st and is a time period where access to heat is required. Landlords are required to heat their properties to at least 68 degrees when the outside temperature is below 55 degrees between the hours of 6 AM and 10 PM. Landlords are also required to provide hot water 365 days a year. 
3. Security Deposits – Security deposit maximums are limited to one month of rent. Landlords are required to return the security deposit within 14 days of the tenant moving out. 
4. Raising Rent – If a tenant has occupied a unit for more than two years, the landlord is required to give them a 90-day written notice of them raising the rent. For a tenant that has lived in a rented space for more than one year, but less than two, the landlord must provide a 60-day notice, and for anyone under one year, a 30-day notice is required. 
5. Rental Applications – Landlords may not collect an application fee unless they provide the potential tenant with a copy of the background or credit check and the receipt or invoice from the entity conducting the background check. (NY RPL § 238-a(1)(b))