New York
Security deposit laws in New York
The New York-specific deadline, what you can deduct, and how to write a compliant itemized statement — with statutory citations.
Return deadline
14 days
Generally 14 days after the tenant vacates and provides a forwarding address. If no itemization is provided within 14 days, the landlord's right to retain any portion is forfeited (statewide statute).
Source: New York General Obligations Law Section 7-108
What landlords can deduct
- Itemized statement must list each deduction with a description and amount.
- Provide copies of receipts or estimates.
- Refund the balance within 14 days of move-out.
- Do not deduct for normal wear and tear.
Receipts & documentation
- Provide a written itemized list of all deductions within 14 days.
- Attach copies of receipts or invoices for repairs and cleaning.
- If work is not yet complete, a reasonable good-faith estimate may be used; mark it as such.
Gray areas to review carefully
Strict 14-day forfeiture
Failure to provide an itemized statement and refund within 14 days forfeits the right to retain any portion of the deposit (statewide).
Local ordinances
NYC and other localities may add requirements (e.g. additional disclosures, deposit limits). Verify local law.
Normal wear and tear vs. damage
Only damage beyond normal wear and tear is deductible.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in New York?
Generally 14 days. Generally 14 days after the tenant vacates and provides a forwarding address. If no itemization is provided within 14 days, the landlord's right to retain any portion is forfeited (statewide statute). Source: New York General Obligations Law Section 7-108. This is a general rule — verify your specific situation and any local ordinances.
Is an itemized statement required in New York?
Yes. New York requires a written itemized list of deductions. Itemized statement must list each deduction with a description and amount.
Can a landlord deduct for "normal wear and tear" in New York?
No. Every US state (including New York) excludes normal wear and tear from deductibility. Only damage beyond ordinary wear — such as stains, burns, large holes, or breakage — is typically deductible. Compare move-in and move-out photos for each item.
What happens if the landlord misses the deadline in New York?
Missing the deadline can forfeit the right to withhold any portion of the deposit. New York's statute (New York General Obligations Law Section 7-108) is generally strictly applied.
Does MoveOutGuard support New York?
Yes — MoveOutGuard generates a New York-specific deduction letter using the deadline (14 days) and citation (New York General Obligations Law Section 7-108) above. Upload your receipts and move-out photos and the AI drafts an itemized letter for human review.
Draft your New York letter in minutes
Upload receipts and photos. Get a New York-specific itemized deduction letter for human review.
MoveOutGuard is a document preparation and evidence organization tool. It is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Drafts, checklists, and deadline estimates require your review and are not a guarantee of compliance or outcomes. For legal questions, consult a licensed attorney.