Key Takeaways
- Security deposits in NY are capped at one month's rent for most residential tenancies
- Landlords must return security deposits within 14 days of lease termination
- Rent stabilization and rent control apply to many NYC apartments
- New York has strong tenant protections including warranty of habitability
- Evictions require court proceedings—self-help evictions are illegal
Last updated: January 2026
New York Landlord-Tenant Law
New York has strong tenant protections. Understanding these is essential for the exam.
Security Deposits
Limits (2019 Law)
| Type | Maximum |
|---|---|
| Residential | 1 month's rent |
| First/last month | Cannot require both |
| Pet deposit | Cannot charge separately |
Return Requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Time to return | 14 days after vacating |
| Itemized statement | If deductions made |
| Interest | Must be paid to tenant |
| Escrow | Must be held separately |
Allowable Deductions
| Can Deduct | Cannot Deduct |
|---|---|
| Unpaid rent | Normal wear and tear |
| Damage beyond normal | Pre-existing conditions |
| Cleaning (if specified) | Improvements |
Warranty of Habitability
Landlords MUST provide:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Heat | October 1 - May 31 (62°F+) |
| Hot water | Year-round |
| Repairs | Timely maintenance |
| Safety | Smoke/CO detectors |
| Pest control | Free from infestation |
Rent Regulation (NYC)
Rent Control
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Buildings | Continuous occupancy since 1971 |
| Rare | Very few units remain |
| Rent | Set by city |
| Succession | Family members |
Rent Stabilization
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Buildings | 6+ units, built 1947-1974 |
| Also | Buildings with tax benefits |
| Rent increases | Set by Rent Guidelines Board |
| Lease renewal | Required |
| Deregulation | Limited since 2019 |
Eviction Process
Required Steps
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Notice | Written notice to tenant |
| 2. Court filing | If tenant doesn't comply |
| 3. Hearing | Tenant can appear |
| 4. Judgment | Court decides |
| 5. Warrant | Marshal executes |
Prohibited Practices
| Illegal | Description |
|---|---|
| Self-help eviction | Changing locks, removing belongings |
| Utility shutoff | To force tenant out |
| Harassment | Intimidation |
| Retaliation | For complaints |
Lease Requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Written | For 1+ year leases |
| Plain language | Must be understandable |
| Lead disclosure | Pre-1978 buildings |
| Rent receipt | Required if requested |
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Test Your Knowledge
In New York, what is the maximum security deposit a landlord can require for most residential tenancies?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
How many days does a New York landlord have to return a security deposit after a tenant vacates?
A
B
C
D