Tenant Rights Guide
Security deposit laws, repair deadlines, and your legal rights as a New York tenant — with a free demand letter generator.
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Security Deposit Deadline
14 days
New York General Obligations Law § 7-108
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Penalty for Late Return
Double the deposit amount
If landlord misses deadline
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Repair Deadline
24 hours for emergencies (NYC); reasonable time statewide
New York Real Property Law § 235-b
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Notice Required
Written notice — text or email acceptable
To trigger legal deadlines
| Issue | Deadline | Law |
|---|---|---|
| Security Deposit Return | 14 days | New York General Obligations Law § 7-108 |
| General Repairs | 24 hours for emergencies (NYC); reasonable time statewide | New York Real Property Law § 235-b |
| Heat & Hot Water | Emergency — 24–72 hours | NYC Admin Code § 27-2031 (120°F hot water year-round) |
| Written Notice Required | Written notice — text or email acceptable | Required to trigger deadlines |
With New York General Obligations Law § 7-108 and New York Real Property Law § 235-b automatically included. Free to start.