How the eviction process works in New York

What to know

• •Eviction in New York generally requires a written notice before a landlord can file in court — the required notice depends on the reason for eviction.
• •Only a court can order an eviction; a landlord cannot lock out a tenant or remove belongings without a court order and a marshal or sheriff.
• •Nonpayment and holdover (lease violation or end-of-term) cases follow different notice and filing procedures.
• •Tenants have the right to appear in court and raise defenses before any eviction is ordered.
• •Timelines vary significantly by county and court caseload, so the exact process length differs across New York.

This page is informational only and not legal advice. Rules change — see the live Observatory for current figures.