How does rent control work in New York City in 2026?

Question

Accepted Answer

Rent control and rent stabilization are two separate — and frequently confused — forms of rent regulation in New York City.

Rent control (the stricter, older system):

Applies to approximately 16,000 apartments in NYC — a small and shrinking number
Generally covers tenants who have lived continuously in the same unit since before July 1, 1969
Rent increases are set by the Maximum Base Rent (MBR) system and are tightly limited
When a rent-controlled apartment becomes vacant, it typically converts to rent stabilization

Rent stabilization (the larger system):

Covers approximately 1 million apartments in NYC
Applies to most apartments in buildings built before 1974 with 6 or more units
Annual rent increases are set by the NYC Rent Guidelines Board (RGB)
For leases starting between October 1, 2025 and September 30, 2026:
- One-year lease renewals: RGB-approved increase (set May 2026)
- Two-year lease renewals: RGB-approved increase

Key protections for rent-stabilized tenants:

Right to lease renewal
Limits on rent increases
Protection against eviction without cause
Right to sublet (with conditions)

How to check if your apartment is rent-stabilized: Request the apartment's rent history from the NY Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) at hcr.ny.gov — this shows the legal registered rent history and stabilization status.