What repairs is a New York landlord required to make?

Question

Accepted Answer

New York landlords have a legal obligation to maintain rental properties in habitable condition under the warranty of habitability — one of the strongest tenant protections in US law.

What landlords are legally required to maintain in NYC:

Structural and safety:

Roof, walls, floors and ceilings free from leaks and structural hazards
Secure building entrance and locks on all exterior doors
Working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
Lead paint remediation in units with children under 6 (Local Law 1)

Heating and utilities:

Heat of at least 68°F (20°C) between October 1 and May 31 when outdoor temperature drops below 55°F during the day
Heat of at least 55°F overnight during the heating season
Hot water at a minimum of 120°F year-round
Working plumbing and sewage systems

Pest control:

Landlords are responsible for exterminating rodents, cockroaches, bed bugs and other pests — this cannot be passed to the tenant

What tenants are generally responsible for:

Minor repairs caused by their own negligence or misuse
Keeping their unit clean and free from conditions that attract pests
Replacing light bulbs in their own unit

What to do if your landlord refuses to make repairs:

Notify your landlord in writing — document the request and the date
File a complaint with HPD (Housing Preservation and Development) — inspectors can issue violations
In serious cases, tenants may have the right to repair and deduct (for minor repairs, up to one month's rent) or to withhold rent pending repairs — consult a tenant rights attorney before doing either