Bill > A04960

This bill provides comprehensive protections for residential tenants by mandating that all written residential leases include specific clauses that outline tenant rights and landlord responsibilities. The bill requires leases to cover several key areas: a warranty of habitability (ensuring the apartment is safe and livable), protections against willful lease violations, the right to participate in tenant associations without fear of retaliation, protection from eviction for good faith complaints, utility payment offset provisions, and sublet rights. For buildings with four or more units, tenants gain additional protections such as the right to install extra locks, receive specific heating requirements, and procedures for addressing heating oil delivery issues. Landlords must now provide written notice of tenant rights, and violations of these provisions can result in fines up to $100. The bill also includes provisions about landlord liability, security deposit management, and the right to a jury trial in certain disputes. These changes aim to create more transparent, fair, and protective residential lease agreements that clearly outline the legal rights and responsibilities of both tenants and landlords, ultimately providing tenants with greater security and recourse in their housing situations.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4960