How much notice
Real Property Law § 226-c sets the notice a landlord must give when not renewing (or when renewing with an increase of 5% or more). It is based on how long the tenant has occupied the unit or the lease length, whichever is longer:
| Tenant's occupancy or lease term | Minimum notice |
|---|---|
| Less than 1 year (and lease under 1 year) | 30 days |
| 1 to 2 years (or a lease of 1 to 2 years) | 60 days |
| More than 2 years (or a lease of 2+ years) | 90 days |
If notice is late, the statute says the tenancy continues on its existing terms from the date notice was actually given until the notice period has run. The generator measures occupancy up to the end date (the cautious reading) and tells you the last day to deliver.
The Good Cause notice must be attached
§ 226-c(1)(a) requires the non-renewal notice to "append or contain" the § 231-c Good Cause notice. If the unit is covered by the Good Cause Eviction Law, the notice must give the lawful reason for not renewing (for example, nonpayment, a lease violation not cured after 10 days' written notice, or the owner moving in). If the unit is exempt, it must say why.
Month-to-month tenants in NYC
In New York City, RPL § 232-a requires the notice ending a monthly tenancy to be served the same way as a notice of petition (RPAPL § 735) and to state that, unless the tenant moves out on the day given, the landlord will start summary proceedings. Our notice includes that statement.
Rent-stabilized apartments
This template is not for rent-stabilized or rent-controlled units. Those tenants generally have renewal rights, and the NYC Rent Guidelines Board explains that renewal offers go out 90 to 150 days before the lease ends. Talk to an attorney.
How to deliver it
Deliver it personally, or use the RPAPL § 735 methods (suitable person or posting, plus certified and regular mail within one day). If you mail it, allow extra days so the full notice period still runs. Keep a signed copy and fill in the Record of Service page.
Frequently asked questions
How many days notice does a NY landlord have to give to not renew a lease?
30, 60 or 90 days under RPL § 226-c, depending on whether the tenant has lived there (or has a lease) for under 1 year, 1 to 2 years, or more than 2 years.
Can I end a month-to-month tenancy in New York?
Yes, with the same 30/60/90-day notice. In NYC, RPL § 232-a also requires service like a notice of petition. If the unit is covered by the Good Cause Eviction Law, you also need a lawful good-cause reason.
Does the termination date have to be the end of a month?
RPL § 226-c counts days and does not say the date must fall at the end of a month. Many landlords still pick the last day of a rental period. Ask an attorney if unsure.
What if I gave the notice late?
Under § 226-c, the tenancy continues on its existing terms from when notice was given until the full notice period has passed.
Related notices
Sources
- N.Y. Real Property Law § 226-c (30/60/90-day notice)
- N.Y. Real Property Law § 232-a (NYC month-to-month)
- N.Y. Real Property Law § 231-c (Good Cause Eviction Law notice)
- N.Y. Real Property Law § 216 (good cause grounds)
- N.Y. RPAPL § 735 (manner of service)
- NYC HPD: Good Cause Eviction (local rent standard 8.38% as of May 4, 2026)
- NYC Rent Guidelines Board: lease renewal FAQ
Statute text read on October 25, 2026. Laws change; check the source before relying on it.