How much notice does a NYC landlord need to enter my apartment?

Question

Accepted Answer

Your apartment is your home — even when you rent it. New York law protects your right to privacy and limits when and how a landlord can enter.

Required notice before entry in NYC:

In most circumstances, your landlord must provide reasonable advance notice before entering — in practice, NYC courts interpret this as a minimum of 24 hours' written notice
The landlord must enter at a reasonable time — generally during normal business hours unless you agree otherwise
The reason for entry must be legitimate: repairs, inspections, showing the apartment to prospective tenants or buyers

When a landlord can enter without notice:

Genuine emergency — fire, burst pipe, gas leak or other urgent safety situation
If you have abandoned the apartment

What counts as an illegal entry:

What to do if your landlord enters without notice:

Document the incident in writing and send a written objection to your landlord
Repeated unauthorized entry can constitute landlord harassment — file a complaint with HPD or seek legal advice from a tenant rights organization