The relationship between a renter and a landlord is a difficult one for both parties to live within. A raft of new laws in New York have defined the relationship and interests of both parties. Despite owning a property, your landlord must abide by some basic rules.
Landlords cannot enter unannounced
Online horror stories abound regarding landlords entering a property unannounced. The laws of rental properties are regulated at the state level, with New York’s State legislature updating its rules regularly. The landlord/tenant relationship includes the protection of the renter’s right to privacy. A landlord cannot enter a property unannounced unless it is an emergency. New York requires landlords to provide proper notice to the tenant before entering.
Raise your rent
Rent in New York is expensive enough without your landlord’s raising prices. Rental increases of more than five percent must be announced 30-days before being introduced. New York makes sure renters are given fair warning of rental increases.
Stop you from having a roommate
Your landlord can place a maximum occupancy number on your property. If you choose to move in with a roommate you must inform your landlord 30 days in advance. New York law allows you to live with immediate family, one other person, or a dependent child without retaliation from your landlord.
Force you to leave
Your landlord may threaten you with eviction but they cannot evict you without reason. The only times you can be asked to leave is if your tenancy agreement is up or you have broken the terms of your lease. Withholding rent from your landlord is another reason for eviction.
New York’s laws changed in 2020 to level the playing field in the landlord/tenant relationship.