What does N.Y. GOL § 7-108 address?
Landlord cannot charge for normal wear and tear. Open the current official text to check coverage, definitions, and exceptions for your situation.
N.Y. GOL § 7-108: Landlord cannot charge for normal wear and tear
Compare this New York source with your dates, records, and the conditions that apply to your rental.
Reviewed: 2026-08-11
How sources are checked →Deadline context
14 days
Possible remedy
Forfeiture; up to 2x deposit for willfulness
What the cited source addresses
Landlord cannot charge for normal wear and tear.
Read the current official sectionHow to review this source with your facts
- Document ordinary aging versus true damage with photos.
- Challenge deductions for paint, carpet wear, and routine turnover items.
- Review age, prior condition, repairability, actual cost, and betterment when relevant under the controlling rule.
Frequently asked questions
Questions to compare with the current source before using the citation in a letter or filing.
How long does a New York landlord have to return the deposit?
14 days after tenant vacates (14 days).
Could a penalty or other remedy apply?
Late itemization forfeits retention; a willful violation may support punitive damages up to 2x the deposit. Check the source's required facts, conditions, notices, defenses, and remedy language before relying on it.
Next steps
Check the current source, calculate the relevant dates, and organize the records you may reference.