On April 20, 2024, New York enacted the Good Cause Eviction Law, significantly curtailing a landlord’s ability to evict tenants. Under this law, landlords are prohibited from removing a tenant, or not renewing their lease, unless there is good cause shown. Landlords have the burden of establishing good cause, which is narrowly defined as: non-payment of rent; violation of a substantial obligation of the tenancy; nuisance; malicious or grossly negligent substantial damage to the premises; illegal use of premises; owner-occupancy of premises; demolition; withdrawal of premises from rental housing market; and failure to agree to reasonable changes to a lease.

Capping Rent Increases

This law also caps rent increases to either ten percent or the inflation index, whichever is lower. These restrictions apply to all rentals, with limited exceptions. Landlords who own 10 or less units throughout New York State, owner-occupied buildings with 10 units or less, co-ops, condominiums and certain low-income housing units are exempt from this law.

Currently this law only applies in New York City. While not mandatory in other cities yet, villages and towns may opt-in to the program. This law dramatically changes the rental market and raises significant challenges for landlords.

Have questions?
Contact:
Laura Endres, Partner (laura@taylor-eldrdige.com)
Jennine Cullen, Associate Attorney (jennine@taylor-eldridge.com)