New York regulates rent increases tightly through rent stabilization and control systems in New York City, with specific caps set annually by the Rent Guidelines Board (RGB). Outside these systems, market-rate apartments face no statewide caps but require notice for significant hikes as of 2026.
Rent Stabilization Rules
About 1 million NYC apartments fall under rent stabilization, where landlords can raise rents by RGB-approved amounts: 3% for one-year leases and 4.5% for two-year leases starting October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026.
Additional increases possible for major capital improvements (capped at 2% yearly) or individual apartment improvements (up to $83-89 monthly, post-hazard fixes).
Rent Control Limits
Fewer than 30,000 older units see increases tied to city-set percentages (historically 2-7.75%), plus fuel pass-alongs; vacancies allow 20% hikes over prior rent plus RGB adjustments.
Market-Rate Apartments
Unregulated units permit any increase at lease renewal with 30-90 days’ notice (60+ days if hike exceeds 5%). No mid-lease changes without tenant agreement; retaliatory hikes illegal.
Key Protections
2019 Housing Stability Act ended vacancy decontrol and preferential rents; good cause eviction required post-lease stabilization expansions. Challenge improper hikes via DHCR or court; freezes possible in crises.
Lease Type Comparison
SOURCES:
- https://www.hemlane.com/resources/new-york-rent-control-laws/
- https://ag.ny.gov/sites/default/files/changes-in-nys-rent-law.pdf
