Security Deposit Rules
Security deposit limits, return deadlines, and landlord entry notice rules are set by state and sometimes local law, and they change. Confirm the current rule in the statute itself or with a local tenant resource before relying on it. Our New York security deposit interest page covers whether interest is owed.
Notice Requirements
Landlord entry, month-to-month termination, and rent increase notice periods are set by state and sometimes local law, and they change. Check the lease for its notice terms, and confirm the current legal minimums in the statute or with a local tenant resource before relying on them.
Rent Control
Rent control rules depend on state and local law, and they change. Check the current rules with your state or local housing agency, or a local tenant resource, before relying on them.
Habitability & Repair Requirements
New York landlords are required to maintain rental units in habitable condition.
Market Conditions & Lease-Risk Notes for New York
New York City's residential market has vacancy under 2% — the lowest in the country. Manhattan 1BR averages $3,500–5,000/month. The outer boroughs are $2,200–3,500/month. Commercial rents in Midtown Manhattan range from $60–120/sqft for Class A office.
New York changed its tenant laws in 2019 through the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act, and the current rules are worth checking. Commercial tenants generally have fewer statutory protections than residential tenants, so lease terms matter more.
NYC commercial leases with Yellowstone injunction provisions — ask your attorney before signing any commercial lease over $5,000/month. Personal guaranty clauses in NYC commercial leases that extend beyond the initial lease term. High-rise residential leases with aggressive renovation and restoration clauses.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the security deposit limit in New York?
- Security deposit limits, return deadlines, and landlord entry notice rules are set by state and sometimes local law, and they change. Confirm the current rule in the statute itself or with a local tenant resource before relying on it.
- Does New York have rent control?
- Rent control rules depend on state and local law, and they change. Check the current rules with your state or local housing agency, or a local tenant resource, before relying on them.
- How much notice does a New York landlord need to give before non-renewal?
- Under the HSTPA, the notice period can grow with how long the tenancy has lasted, so check the current statute.
- How long does a New York landlord have to return a security deposit?
- Security deposit limits, return deadlines, and landlord entry notice rules are set by state and sometimes local law, and they change. Confirm the current rule in the statute itself or with a local tenant resource before relying on it.
- Are NYC commercial leases subject to rent regulation?
- Rent control rules depend on state and local law, and they change. Check the current rules with your state or local housing agency, or a local tenant resource, before relying on them.
Cities in New York
Find city-specific lease guides for major markets in New York: