Many people who live in New York rent their apartments. In some cases, a landlord may need to evict a tenant, which can be greatly upsetting for families.
However, landlords typically can not evict tenants for just any reason. Landlords must follow New York rules or they will violate a tenant’s rights – and that can lead to massive legal complications. New York tenants should be aware of their legal rights to avoid being unlawfully evicted from their homes. Here are a few lawful reasons a landlord might evict a tenant:
Rent was not paid
One of the most common reasons to evict a tenant is because they failed to pay rent. Tenants are typically expected to make monthly payments. Tenants may be given a notice that their rent was not paid before they are lawfully evicted.
Expired lease
A lease may only last for a month, several months to over a year. Once a lease expires, a landlord may allow a tenant to renew their lease. In some cases, a landlord may end the lease once it expires. If a tenant does not renew their lease or the landlord ends the lease, then the tenant may be lawfully evicted.
Illegal subletting
In many leases, tenants are not allowed to sublet an apartment without their landlord’s permission. In other words, a tenant may not rent out part of an apartment to someone else. While this is still done, getting caught can be a cause for eviction.
Property damage
Tenants may violate their lease if they cause damage to an apartment. Damage may include broken walls, doors, appliances or windows. Furthermore, creating a health violation, such as leaving garbage out and allowing vermin to enter a home could also violate a lease.
Landlords and tenants both need to be aware of their legal rights. Legal guidance may be necessary if a tenant believes they were unlawfully evicted.