DIY Repairs for Renters: What’s Allowed in New York

Renters in New York often want to fix things themselves when maintenance issues come up. But New York law sets clear rules about what DIY repairs tenants can do—and what must be left to landlords or professionals. If you’re a tenant, understanding these limits is key to keeping your rights and avoiding unwanted bills or lease violations.

Understanding Maintenance Responsibilities in New York Rentals

In New York State, landlords are required by law to provide and maintain safe, habitable housing. This standard covers essentials like heat, hot water, plumbing, and structural safety. These requirements are set by the New York State Real Property Law and local housing codes¹.

• Landlord Responsibilities:
  • Fixing major issues (plumbing, heating, electrical, roofs, windows, locks)
  • Providing heat and hot water
  • Handling pest control when not caused by tenant neglect
• Tenant Responsibilities:
  • Keeping the apartment clean and safe
  • Not damaging the property
  • Reporting maintenance issues promptly

Before attempting any repairs, always review your lease and notify your landlord in writing about problems. Your lease may spell out specific rules for maintenance and repairs.

What DIY Repairs Can Renters Legally Do?

Tenants in New York are generally allowed to perform minor, cosmetic repairs that do not affect the building’s structure or systems. Examples include:

• Changing light bulbs
• Replacing a shower curtain rod
• Tightening a loose doorknob (if not part of a building security system)
• Hanging removable shelves or curtains (check lease restrictions)

However, any repair that involves plumbing, electricity, gas, heating, or structural elements must be done by the landlord or a licensed professional. Unauthorized work could risk your safety, lead to fines, or violate your lease.

DIY Is Not Always Allowed—When to Leave It to the Landlord

Certain repairs are always the landlord's responsibility under New York law:

• Major plumbing or electrical issues
• Broken windows or doors affecting security
• Heat or hot water failures
• Pest infestations not caused by tenant neglect
• Mold, lead paint, asbestos, or hazardous conditions

If you make unauthorized repairs in these areas—you could be liable for damages or lose your security deposit. It's best to document problems, request repairs in writing, and only proceed if the landlord gives written permission.

Steps to Request Repairs in New York

If your landlord is not responding to repair requests, you have legal options. Before you consider any repairs yourself, follow these key action steps:

• Notify your landlord in writing. Document the issue and the date you reported it.
• If the landlord does not fix the problem in a reasonable time, you can file a complaint with your local code enforcement office or
  start a housing court case.
• Never deduct repair costs from your rent unless you have written approval or a court order. "Repair and deduct" is generally not allowed in New York without proper process.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• HP Action (Housing Part Action in Housing Court)
  No standard New York State form number. Sample available by court.
  
  • When to Use: If your landlord fails to make vital repairs affecting health or safety, you can start an HP Action in Housing Court to force repairs.
  • How to Use: File in person at your local housing court. Bring documentation (photos, written requests, correspondence).
  • Get the HP Action Petition form (PDF)
• 311 Complaint (NYC Tenants Only)
  
  • When to Use: For code violations or non-urgent repair issues in New York City, file a 311 complaint online or by phone.
  • How to Use: Call 311 or file a 311 complaint online here.

For additional forms and filing instructions, visit the Housing Court - New York State Unified Court System website².

What Happens if Tenants Make Unauthorized Repairs?

Making repairs without permission—especially on plumbing, electrical, or structural items—can result in:

• Loss of your security deposit
• Being responsible for any additional property damage
• Lease violations and possible eviction actions

Always check your lease and get the landlord’s written OK for anything beyond simple cosmetic fixes.

FAQ: DIY Repairs and Tenant Maintenance Rights in New York

1. Can my landlord stop me from making small repairs?
   Yes, your lease may limit any modifications. Always check for rules about painting, hanging shelves, or other changes.
2. If my landlord doesn’t fix something urgent, can I hire my own repair person?
   In New York, renters should not hire outside help or deduct costs from rent unless ordered by the housing court.
3. What if repairs are needed and my landlord ignores my requests?
   You can file an HP Action in Housing Court or a 311 complaint (NYC only) to force repairs. Document everything.
4. Who handles tenant-landlord cases or repair disputes in New York?
   The NYC Housing Court and local code enforcement offices resolve these issues.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Only perform simple, non-structural repairs yourself—big repairs are the landlord’s job
• Always report issues in writing and save copies
• If your landlord won’t make urgent fixes, use official government resources or housing court

The best way to stay protected is to understand your rights and use the correct legal channels before taking any action.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• NYC Housing Court – New York State Unified Court System (handles repairs and tenant-landlord disputes)
• New York State Tenant Protection Unit (for tenant rights and resources)
• NYC 311 Online (for repair complaints and code violations in NYC)
• NYC HPD: Report a Maintenance Issue
• Tenant Resource Guide – NY Courts

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1. New York State Real Property Law - Tenant Rights
2. NYC Housing Court - Tenant-Landlord Disputes

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