New York Statewide Rule

Good Cause Eviction Protections in New York

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across New York (2026)

New York's Good Cause Eviction Law (RPL Article 6-A) limits evictions and rent hikes for covered tenants in NYC by default, with optional adoption by other municipalities.

Key Facts

Statute: RPL Article 6-A
Effective date: April 20, 2024
Rent hike threshold: Lower of 10% or CPI+5%
Auto coverage: New York City

Source: New York State Senate

Full Breakdown

Effective April 20, 2024, Real Property Law Article 6-A requires landlords to show good cause before declining to renew leases or evicting most market-rate tenants. Covered tenants may also challenge unreasonable rent increases above a defined threshold (the lower of 10% or CPI plus 5%). The law applies automatically in New York City; municipalities outside NYC may opt in by local law. Multiple exemptions exist for small landlords, owner-occupied buildings, and luxury units.

Violations & Penalties

Eviction filings without statutory good cause may be dismissed; tenants can raise unreasonable rent increases as a defense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Good Cause apply to my rental outside NYC?

Only if your municipality has opted in by local law. Several upstate cities including Albany, Ithaca, Kingston, and Poughkeepsie have adopted Good Cause; many others have not.

Are all rentals covered by Good Cause Eviction?

No. Owner-occupied buildings with under 10 units, rent-stabilized units, condos, co-ops, sublets, and units above luxury rent thresholds are typically exempt.

Sources

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.

Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Good Cause apply to my rental outside NYC?

Only if your municipality has opted in by local law. Several upstate cities including Albany, Ithaca, Kingston, and Poughkeepsie have adopted Good Cause; many others have not.

Are all rentals covered by Good Cause Eviction?

No. Owner-occupied buildings with under 10 units, rent-stabilized units, condos, co-ops, sublets, and units above luxury rent thresholds are typically exempt.