Under New York GOL §7-108, New York City landlords have 14 days to return your deposit after move-out. Potential full deposit recovery if they miss the deadline or make improper deductions.
Check My New York City DepositNew York City Key Rules
Return Deadline
14 days
14 days after move-out, per New York GOL §7-108
Penalty if Late
Potential full deposit recovery
Applies automatically on deadline violation
Itemization Required
Yes
Written itemization required within 14 days
Common Questions
Under New York GOL §7-108, New York landlords have 14 days after move-out to return your security deposit along with an itemized written statement of any deductions. The clock starts on your official move-out date.
If your landlord fails to return your deposit within the deadline or makes bad-faith deductions, your landlord forfeits the right to retain any portion of the deposit. This is governed by GOL §7-108(1-a)(e). You can start by sending a formal demand letter and, if necessary, file a claim in New York small claims court (limit: $10,000).
No. New York law explicitly prohibits deductions for normal wear and tear. Normal wear and tear refers to the gradual deterioration that results from ordinary use of the property over time, such as minor scuffs, faded paint, or worn carpet. Landlords may only deduct for actual damage beyond normal use that you caused.
Start by sending your landlord a formal written demand letter citing New York GOL §7-108. State the amount owed, the deadline violation or improper deductions, and the penalties that apply. If your landlord does not respond within a reasonable time, you can file a small claims court case in New York (limit: $10,000). GetItBack can generate a personalized demand letter for free in under 2 minutes.
Know Your Rights
Timely return: Your landlord must return your deposit within 14 days after move-out. Missing this deadline can entitle you to penalties under New York GOL §7-108.
Written itemization: If your landlord makes any deductions, they must provide a written itemized statement within 14 days. Failure to do so can forfeit their right to keep any portion of the deposit.
No normal wear and tear deductions: New York law explicitly prohibits deductions for normal wear and tear. Your landlord cannot charge you for minor scuffs, faded paint, or worn carpet that results from ordinary use.
Penalty enforcement: If your landlord violates the law, you can demand potential full deposit recovery. Start with a formal demand letter, then escalate to New York small claims court if needed. The filing limit in New York is $10,000.
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