Do You Need a Landlord-Tenant Lawyer in NYC? Here’s How to Know

Why Landlord-Tenant Disputes Escalate So Quickly

In a city where housing laws are as layered and strict as the skyline is tall, even minor conflicts can lead to court. What starts as a disagreement over repairs or rent payments can quickly evolve into a complex legal dispute that threatens your home or property investment.

Here’s why landlord-tenant issues often spiral:

1. Rent-Stabilization Adds Legal Complexity

Rent-stabilized and rent-controlled apartments come with strict legal protections. Landlords have to follow specific rules for rent increases, evictions, and lease renewals. Tenants, on the other hand, often aren’t fully aware of their rights—or how to enforce them.

2. Legal Rights Are Misunderstood

Both parties often misunderstand or misinterpret New York housing law. For example, many landlords assume they can remove tenants after lease violations without going to court. They can’t. Similarly, tenants may believe verbal agreements override written leases. They don’t.

3. The Stakes Are Extremely High

For tenants, losing a case could mean losing their home. For landlords, an unresolved dispute can cost months of unpaid rent, property damage, or legal liability. The pressure often drives people to act emotionally instead of strategically.

4. NYC Housing Law Is Exceptionally Technical

New York’s Housing Court has strict procedures. Miss a step—such as failing to serve the right notice or submit proper documentation—and your case could be thrown out, even if you're in the right.

When facing any of these scenarios, hiring an experienced landlord-tenant lawyer in New York City can make the difference between a successful outcome and a costly mistake.

Signs You Need a Landlord-Tenant Lawyer

Wondering if your situation requires legal help? Here are the most common red flags that it’s time to talk to an attorney.

For Tenants:

• You’re facing eviction or being locked out illegally
• Your landlord is harassing you or denying essential services (heat, water, electricity)
• Your security deposit hasn’t been returned within 14 days of moving out
• You suspect you're being overcharged rent in a stabilized unit
• Your landlord refuses to make repairs or address safety hazards
• You’re being retaliated against for reporting violations or asking for repairs

For Landlords:

• Your tenant stopped paying rent or violated the lease
• You’re managing a rent-stabilized property and unsure about eviction procedures
• You need to remove a non-authorized occupant or illegal sublet
• You’re being accused of negligence, harassment, or improper notice
• You want to enforce lease terms, collect unpaid rent, or reclaim possession legally

Any of these issues can benefit from the immediate attention of a landlord-tenant attorney in NYC who knows the system and how to work it in your favor.

The Risks of Not Having Legal Representation

It’s tempting to save money by trying to handle disputes on your own—but in landlord-tenant law, that’s often the costliest route.

For Tenants:

• You could unknowingly waive your rights or agree to a buyout under market value.
• You might get evicted due to missed court deadlines or improper filings.
• You could lose access to rent-regulation protections that are legally guaranteed.
• You might not collect damages you’re legally entitled to for harassment or neglect.

For Landlords:

• An improper eviction could delay recovery of your unit for months.
• Failure to serve notices correctly may invalidate your entire case.
• You could end up in litigation for tenant harassment or improper rent increases.
• You risk violating COVID-era tenant protections still in place.

The Price Law Firm has seen firsthand how quickly a winnable case can go sideways without experienced legal support. We help clients avoid these traps by guiding every step—whether in court or during negotiations.

What an Experienced NYC Landlord-Tenant Lawyer Actually Does

Hiring a landlord-tenant lawyer isn’t just about going to court. It’s about having a strategic partner who understands your goals and knows how to get there through the legal system.

At The Price Law Firm, here’s what we do for you:

• Review your lease or agreement and assess its enforceability
• Draft legal notices or respond to legal threats on your behalf
• Represent you in Housing Court, Civil Court, or arbitration
• Negotiate settlements that protect your long-term interests
• Build a tailored litigation strategy based on your rights and risks
• Keep you informed with clear, jargon-free communication

Whether you’re trying to preserve your home or protect your investment, having the right lawyer ensures the issue gets handled correctly—and efficiently.

Common Legal Scenarios We Handle

The Price Law Firm represents clients on both sides of the landlord-tenant relationship, which gives us a complete understanding of how cases play out—and how to resolve them effectively.

Some of the most common disputes we handle include:

Tenant-Side Cases:

• Illegal lockouts or evictions
• Breach of warranty of habitability (unlivable conditions)
• Security deposit disputes
• Harassment or retaliation by landlords
• Unlawful rent increases or overcharges
• Succession rights in rent-stabilized apartments

Landlord-Side Cases:

• Non-payment of rent or lease violations
• Eviction of tenants or unauthorized occupants
• Commercial lease disputes and enforcement
• Recovering possession of a unit
• Tenant harassment defense
• Lease drafting, renewals, and negotiations

We don’t take every case—but when we do, we commit to a level of advocacy that few NYC law firms can match.

Why Choose The Price Law Firm?

With over 25 years of focused real estate litigation experience, The Price Law Firm has become a trusted name for aggressive, strategic legal representation in landlord-tenant disputes across New York City.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Extensive Housing Court experience across all five boroughs
• Proven success in high-stakes cases involving rent-regulated units
• Clear, responsive communication from real attorneys—not just paralegals
• Tailored strategies based on your unique goals and legal position
• Compassionate, no-nonsense guidance from consultation through resolution

Our clients consistently refer others to us because we treat every case like it’s personal—because for you, it is.

FAQs About Landlord-Tenant Lawyers in NYC

Do I need a lawyer to evict a tenant in NYC?

Yes. NYC’s eviction process is heavily regulated, especially for rent-stabilized or COVID-protected units. Hiring a lawyer ensures you follow the exact legal procedures—saving you time, money, and risk of dismissal.

Can I sue my landlord for harassment or neglect?

Absolutely. If your landlord denies essential services, enters your unit illegally, or retaliates against you for asserting your rights, you may have legal grounds for a lawsuit—and to recover damages.

How long does a landlord-tenant case take?

Simple cases may resolve in weeks; complex cases—especially those involving rent-regulated apartments or multiple hearings—can take several months. The Price Law Firm works to resolve matters quickly and effectively whenever possible.

What court handles these disputes?

Most cases are handled in NYC Housing Court, but some go to Civil Court or even Supreme Court depending on the claim (e.g., high-value damages or lease enforcement). We handle all of them.

Is a lawyer necessary for small disputes?

If your case involves legal rights, potential eviction, or money owed, it’s best to get legal advice. Even small disputes can have big consequences if handled incorrectly.

Take Action Before It’s Too Late

Housing disputes in New York don’t just go away. They escalate. And the longer you wait, the harder they are to resolve. Whether you’re trying to stay in your apartment or remove a tenant who’s violating your lease, the right legal help can protect your rights—and your future.

At The Price Law Firm, we’re ready to give your case the immediate attention it deserves. From free consultations to strategic litigation, we provide the knowledge and legal firepower you need to resolve disputes with confidence.

🟩 Schedule Your Free Case Review Today

Don’t face your landlord-tenant issue alone. Contact The Price Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation and speak with a seasoned NYC landlord-tenant lawyer who can help you take the next step.