New York Assembly Bill A08454

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/16/25
• Refer: 5/16/25

Caption

Requires a notice informing tenants of their rights to be provided to tenants at the time they execute a residential lease and to be posted in certain buildings.

Impact

If enacted, A08454 will amend the real property law significantly, mandating that all landlords include the tenants' bill of rights in their lease agreements, whether written or oral. This would ensure that tenants are actively informed about their rights at the beginning of their tenancy. The bill would apply broadly across various types of residential properties, although it excludes certain categories such as owner-occupied buildings with six or fewer units and temporary accommodations like hotels. This move is set to strengthen tenant protections and foster a more transparent landlord-tenant relationship.

Summary

A08454, known as the Tenants' Bill of Rights, is a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing the rights of tenants in New York State. The bill seeks to establish a comprehensive set of entitlements for individuals who occupy rental properties as their primary residences. Among the rights delineated in the bill are the rights to habitable living conditions, the right to form tenants' groups, protection against eviction without good cause, and the right to receive notice of rent increases. This legislation reflects a growing emphasis on tenant protections amid increasing housing costs and changing rental practices.

Contention

Despite the anticipated benefits, there are notable points of contention surrounding A08454. Some opponents of the bill argue that by imposing additional requirements on landlords, it could discourage investment in rental properties and potentially lead to higher rents due to increased operational costs. Additionally, concerns have been voiced regarding the practicality of enforcing these rights, particularly for tenants who may face retaliation from landlords for asserting their rights. The discussions around the bill highlight the delicate balance between empowering tenants and maintaining a favorable environment for property owners.