New York security deposit law
Return deadline
14 days
Small claims limit
Up to $10,000 in NYC ($5,000 city courts; $3,000 town/village courts)
What you need to know
- • Deposit due back within 14 days of move-out with an itemized statement.
- • Miss the 14-day statement and the landlord forfeits the right to keep any of it.
- • Deposits are capped at one month’s rent; you’re entitled to a walkthrough inspection before move-out.
Itemization: Itemized statement required with any deductions within 14 days.
Interest: Buildings with 6+ units: deposit must be held in an interest-bearing NY account; interest belongs to you.
Deposit cap: Capped at 1 month’s rent (HSTPA 2019).
If they wrongfully withhold: Willful violations: up to 2x the deposit. Missing the 14-day statement forfeits the right to keep any portion.
Statute: N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108
This is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and details vary by city and situation — verify current law or consult a local attorney or tenant’s rights organization before acting.