Essential Lease Addendums for New York Renters to Review

Signing a lease in New York is a big step, and it’s important to fully understand every part of your agreement. Besides the main lease, landlords often include addendums—extra agreements or rules attached to the lease. Knowing what these lease addendums mean can help prevent confusion and protect your rights as a renter.

What Is a Lease Addendum?

A lease addendum is an extra document or page that amends or adds new rules to your original lease agreement. These addendums become legally binding once both you and your landlord sign them, so always review them carefully.

Common Lease Addendums in New York

New York landlords often present a variety of addendums with new leases or during renewal. Here are some of the most important to look out for:

• Lead Paint Disclosure Addendum
  • Required by federal law for buildings built before 1978.
  • Protects tenants by disclosing known lead hazards.
  • Form: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA)
  • Example: If you're moving into an older apartment, you'll be given this form to sign before your lease starts. It shows what the landlord knows about lead paint risks.
• Bedbug Disclosure Addendum
  • Required in New York City as per NYC law.
  • Landlords must inform you of any bedbug infestations in the past year.
  • Form: NYC Bedbug Disclosure Form
  • Example: You receive this form with your lease package to sign and acknowledge the apartment’s bedbug history.
• Pet Addendum
  • Specifies whether pets are allowed, and under what conditions (deposits, breeds, etc.).
  • Not required by law, but very common in rental agreements.
• Subletting or Roommate Addendum
  • Outlines policies on subleasing or adding new roommates during your tenancy, pursuant to state law (New York Real Property Law § 226-b).
  • May require you to notify the landlord or seek permission for sublets.
• Maintenance and Repair Responsibilities
  • Lists tenant and landlord duties, such as changing lightbulbs or fixing leaks.
  • Should not contradict your legal rights under the warranty of habitability.
• Renewal and Rent Increase Addendums
  • Details how and when your lease can be renewed and under what terms a rent increase may happen.
  • Must comply with the NYS rent regulations for regulated apartments.

Each addendum can have a significant impact on your rights and responsibilities as a renter. Only sign what you fully understand and agree to. If you are uncertain, consider reaching out to a renter support agency or legal professional.

Potential Pitfalls in Lease Addendums

Sometimes, lease addendums may include terms that are unenforceable or conflict with state law. Examples:

• Waiving your right to a habitable apartment (not allowed under state law)
• Non-refundable security deposits (security deposits must be refundable in New York)
• Unequal maintenance responsibilities beyond legal standards

If you notice an addendum that seems unfair or confusing, you have the right to ask questions and even negotiate changes before signing.

How to Respond to a Problematic Addendum

• Politely ask your landlord to clarify or modify the addendum.
• Request time to review the addendum outside of the signing meeting.
• Contact the New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) or a tenant advisor for help (HCR Renters Portal).

Official Tribunal Handling Residential Tenancies in New York

In New York, the main tribunal dealing with landlord-tenant disputes is the New York City Housing Court (for NYC), or local City and District Courts (outside NYC). If you have an unresolved issue, you may need to file a complaint or start a proceeding here.

Relevant Legislation

All lease agreements and addendums in New York are governed by the New York State Real Property Law. Key sections protecting renters include:

• Warranty of Habitability (§ 235-b)
• Right to Sublease (§ 226-b)
• Security Deposit Rules

FAQs: Lease Addendums in New York

1. Do I have to sign every lease addendum my landlord gives me?
   If an addendum is required by law (such as the lead paint disclosure), you will need to sign it to complete your lease. For other addendums, you can ask questions, request clarification, or negotiate terms before agreeing.
2. Can a lease addendum override my legal rights as a tenant in New York?
   No, any lease term or addendum that violates New York law is not enforceable. Your basic tenant rights cannot be waived, even through a signed addendum.
3. What should I do if I notice an unfair addendum in my lease?
   Discuss your concerns with your landlord and ask for changes. If the issue isn’t resolved, contact New York State Homes and Community Renewal or your local housing court for advice.
4. Where can I find official lease forms and disclosures for New York renters?
   You can access official forms from the NYS Homes and Community Renewal Renters Portal and the NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development.

Key Takeaways for New York Renters

• Review all addendums carefully before signing—some are required, but many can be negotiated.
• Your tenant rights under New York law always take priority over any lease addendum.
• Seek support from official agencies if you encounter a problematic or confusing lease term.

Taking time to understand addendums can save stress and provide extra protection throughout your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) Renters Portal: Information on renting rights, regulations, and complaints
• NYC Housing Court: File or respond to tenancy disputes in New York City
• NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development: Tenant education and forms, bedbug disclosures
• New York State Real Property Law: Full text of New York’s tenant legislation

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1. New York State Real Property Law
2. New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) – Renters Portal
3. NYC Bedbug Disclosure Rules
4. EPA Lead Paint Disclosure Form
5. New York City Housing Court

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