Landlord won't make repairs in New York
The rules that apply in New York, from official sources.
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General legal information from official sources, not legal advice. You decide what to do.
What this problem is
Landlords must keep rental homes safe and livable, and repair problems within a reasonable time after you tell them. The details, and what you can do if they don't, depend on your state.
Your rights in plain language
The landlord's duty
N.Y. Real Prop. Law § 235-b. Every residential lease includes a warranty of habitability: the right to a livable, safe and sanitary home.
Verified source: Residential Tenants' Rights Guide(opens in a new tab)
Key deadlines
We haven't verified a fixed deadline for this yet. Check the paperwork you received.
The official process
Record the problem
Take dated photos and write down when it started and how it affects you.
Tell your landlord in writing
Send a dated request listing each problem, and keep a copy.
Allow the time your state requires
Your landlord gets a period to make the repair, which depends on your state and how serious the problem is.
Escalate
If nothing happens, ask your local code enforcement office to inspect, and get help before using remedies like withholding rent.
Common mistakes
- Only telling the landlord by phone.
- Withholding rent without following the exact legal steps.
- Not keeping photos and copies of everything you send.
Questions
Is this free?
The information on this page and your personalized results are free. If you want us to prepare a repair request for you to review and send, the price is shown before you start.
Can I stop paying rent until repairs are made?
Only in some states and only after strict steps, such as written notice and a waiting period. Doing it wrong can lead to eviction, so check your state's rule and consider getting help first.
Which states can you prepare a letter for?
Right now: Florida, California, New York and Texas. For other states we show free information and people who can help.
Get help from a person
Free and low-cost help, and official bodies that can step in.
- LawHelp.orgPlain-language guides and legal aid directories, by state.
- Legal Services Corporation: find legal aidFree civil legal aid organizations in every state, for people on lower incomes.
- LawHelpNYFree legal information and legal aid programs in New York.
Sources
Every rule on this page comes from these official sources. We check them regularly.
- Residential Tenants' Rights GuideOffice of the New York State Attorney General · checked Oct 24, 2026
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