The Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019

Summary overview of the changes that went into effect in Buffalo NY in June 2019

The full handbook can be found here: https://ag.ny.gov/sites/default/files/changes-in-nys-rent-law.pdf#:~:text=The%20%E2%80%9CHousing%20Stability%20and%20Tenant%20Protection%20Act,for%20a%20security%20deposit%20on%20new%20leases.&text=%E2%80%BA%20This%202%%20cap%20also%20applies%20to,going%20forward%20will%20be%20limited%20to%202%.

Key Changes for Tenants:

• Mitigation of Damages:

  Landlords are now legally obligated to attempt to re-rent an apartment if a tenant vacates before the lease term is complete. 

• Extended Notice Periods:

  The notice periods for various actions, including rent demands, eviction warrants, and court proceedings, have been extended, giving tenants more time to respond. 

• Adjournment of Hearing:

  Tenants can request a 14-day adjournment of an eviction hearing if there are facts in dispute, providing more time to gather a defense. 

• Restrictions on "Self-Help" Evictions:

  Self-help evictions, where landlords illegally remove tenants, are now considered crimes. 

• Limitations on Fees:

  Landlords can no longer include "fees" (like late fees) in non-payment proceedings.  

• Move-in Inspections:

  Landlords are now required to offer tenants a move-in inspection before they take occupancy. 

• Move-out Inspections:

  Landlords must also offer tenants an opportunity for a move-out inspection 7-14 days before the lease ends. 

• Security Deposits:

  Security deposits are limited to one month's rent, and landlords cannot collect "first and last month's rent" upfront.