Simplifying the New York “Good Cause Eviction Law”
What is the Good Cause Eviction Law?
The Good Cause Eviction Law (“GCE”) was passed as part of New York State’s 2024 budget to protect tenants. It limits rent increases, restricts evictions, and ensures lease renewals in New York City and other areas throughout New York State that adopt it. As of this writing, no jurisdiction within Nassau County or Suffolk County on Long Island has adopted GCE.
What is considered “good cause” for eviction?
The law outlines specific reasons landlords can evict tenants:
- Not paying “reasonable” rent
- Illegal activities in the apartment
- Causing or allowing a nuisance
- Breaking key terms of the lease, which must be in writing. Landlords must give tenants a “notice to cure” and 10 days to fix the issue.
- Blocking reasonable access for repairs or showings
- Refusing to sign a lease renewal with fair changes
- Illegal occupancy (if the landlord isn’t responsible and gets a vacate order)
- Taking the unit off the market or demolishing it
- Owner using the unit personally (in certain instances, Seniors and disabled tenants cannot be evicted for this reason.)
Which buildings/dwellings are exempt from the Good Cause Eviction Law?
The law does not apply to:
- Leases signed before April 20, 2024
- Units renting for more than 245% of the Fair Market Rate (FMR) (updated yearly by New York State)
- New buildings completed after 2009 (exempt for 30 years)
- Buildings owned by small landlords with 10 or fewer units in New York State
- Buildings owned by small corporations where each owner has 10 or fewer units in the state
- Owner-occupied buildings with 10 units or fewer
- Affordable housing units
- Rent-stabilized or rent-controlled units
- Sublets, dorms, hotel rooms, hospital units, and religious institution rooms
- Condominiums and co-ops (including rental units within these types of properties)
What do landlords need to do?
As of August 18, 2024, landlords must include a Good Cause Eviction Notice (“GCEN”) in leases, renewals, and other notices (including pre-eviction predicate notices and eviction Petitions). The notice should:
- State if the unit is covered by the law or why it’s exempt.
- Explain the reason for rent increases if covered by the law.
- Justify non-renewals if the unit is covered.
The Law Office of Bradley D. Schnur, Esq. P.C. is an eviction law firm specializing in representing landlords and tenants throughout Nassau County and Suffolk County on Long Island and throughout the New York Metropolitan Area. Please contact our office today to discuss your specific situation. (516) 932-4400 or (914) 363-6250.