Good Cause Eviction in NYC: Who's Covered & How to Plan
A practical, scenario-based explainer of NYC Good Cause—coverage, exemptions, rent increases, and notice strategy for landlords, tenants & brokers.
NYC's Good Cause Eviction Law represents one of the most significant changes to landlord-tenant law in decades. As someone who has been navigating these new requirements since they took effect, I can tell you that understanding the law's scope and requirements is crucial for both landlords and tenants.
This guide will help you understand who's covered, what the law requires, and how to plan accordingly.
What is Good Cause Eviction?
The Good Cause Eviction Law requires landlords to have a valid reason (good cause) to evict tenants or refuse to renew leases. This law applies to most residential tenancies in NYC, with some important exceptions.
Key Provisions
- • Lease Renewal Rights: Tenants have the right to renew their leases
- • Rent Increase Limits: Rent increases are capped at reasonable amounts
- • Eviction Protection: Landlords need good cause to evict
- • Notice Requirements: Specific notice periods for rent increases
Who's Covered?
The law applies to most residential tenancies, including:
- Market-rate apartments
- Rent-stabilized apartments (additional protections)
- Condos and co-ops (with some exceptions)
- Single-family homes and townhouses
Exemptions and Exceptions
Properties Not Covered
Owner-Occupied Buildings
- • Buildings with 4 or fewer units
- • Owner lives in the building
- • Owner's immediate family lives in building
Other Exemptions
- • Hotels and transient housing
- • Dormitories and student housing
- • Certain government-subsidized housing
- • Buildings with specific regulatory agreements
Tenant Exemptions
Some tenants may not be covered if they:
- Earn more than 200% of the Area Median Income (AMI)
- Live in units with rent above the Fair Market Rent threshold
- Are subletting or have unauthorized occupants
Rent Increase Limits and Requirements
Reasonable Rent Increases
Rent increases must be "reasonable" based on several factors:
Factors Considered
- Market conditions in the area
- Building operating costs
- Capital improvements made
- Tenant's ability to pay
- Rent history of the unit
Notice Requirements
Landlords must provide proper notice for rent increases:
For Month-to-Month Tenancies:
- 30 days' notice for increases under 5%
- 60 days' notice for increases 5% or more
- 90 days' notice for increases 10% or more
For Lease Renewals:
- 30 days' notice for increases under 5%
- 60 days' notice for increases 5% or more
- 90 days' notice for increases 10% or more
Valid Reasons for Eviction (Good Cause)
Acceptable Good Causes
Nonpayment of Rent
Tenant fails to pay rent after proper notice and demand.
Lease Violations
Tenant violates lease terms after notice to cure.
Nuisance or Illegal Activity
Tenant engages in behavior that interferes with other tenants or violates law.
Owner Use
Owner or immediate family needs the unit for personal use (with restrictions).
Demolition or Substantial Renovation
Building will be demolished or substantially renovated (with relocation assistance).
Prohibited Reasons
Landlords cannot evict tenants for:
- Refusing to pay an unreasonable rent increase
- Exercising their rights under the law
- Complaining about conditions
- Organizing with other tenants
- Discriminatory reasons
Strategic Planning for Landlords and Tenants
📌 Michael's Pro Tips
- • Document everything: Keep detailed records of all communications and issues
- • Understand coverage: Determine if your property/tenancy is covered by the law
- • Plan rent increases: Consider market conditions and tenant circumstances
- • Follow procedures: Ensure all notices and procedures comply with the law
- • Seek legal guidance: Consult an attorney for complex situations
For Landlords
Planning Considerations:
- Review your property's coverage status
- Develop rent increase strategies
- Implement proper notice procedures
- Document all tenant communications
- Consider long-term property management
For Tenants
Protection Strategies:
- Understand your rights under the law
- Document all rent payments and communications
- Respond to notices promptly
- Seek legal help for unreasonable increases
- Know the difference between covered and exempt properties
Resources & Next Steps
About the Author
Michael Nacmias, Esq. is a NYC-based attorney with over 20 years of experience handling landlord-tenant disputes, OATH hearings, real estate closings, and compliance matters across all five boroughs. He has been helping clients navigate the new Good Cause Eviction Law since its implementation.
Michael represents both landlords and tenants, providing balanced and practical legal guidance on the complex requirements of NYC's housing laws. His practice focuses on practical solutions that protect his clients' interests while ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations.
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Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every situation is unique, and you should consult with an attorney. This is attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.