renewed for a term of one
(see Fact Sheet #8). As embodied in the rent or two years, at the tenant’s choice. Tenants can
regulations, rent stabilization can also apply to file relevant complaints on a variety of forms
housing accommodations for which rentals are created by the Division of Housing and Community
fixed by DHCR and other government agencies Renewal (DHCR). DHCR is required to serve the
and public benefit corporations. complaint on the owner, gather evidence and then
issue a written order which is subject to appeal.
With the enactment of the Housing Stability
and Tenant Protection Act (HSTPA) on June 14, If a tenant’s rights are violated, DHCR can
2019, any locality in New York State can enact reduce rents and levy civil penalties against the
rent stabilization if “a declaration of emergency” owner. Rents may be reduced if services are not
regarding available apartments is made in the maintained. In cases of overcharge, DHCR may
subject locality pursuant to the Emergency Tenant assess penalties of interest or treble damages
Protection Act (ETPA) of 1974. “A declaration of payable to the tenant.
emergency” can be made if the vacancy rate for