Has your tenant stopped paying their rent in NYC? Although this can be a highly stressful situation to deal with as a landlord, know that you may be able to take legal action and make things right. State law gives you several remedies to address nonpayment in these circumstances, provided each step is handled correctly and in compliance with strict procedural rules.
Our New York landlord lawyers have exceptional success rates in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Queens, giving us a track record that is virtually unmatched in the area. Stark Law PLLC can help you understand what to do next and represent you throughout the process. We’ve been helping NYC landlords for over 30 years.
We can provide you with informational materials and some initial legal advice at no cost to you during a free consultation. Call (718) 792-1200 or reach out online today to set up a time to meet.
How Does the Legal Process Work for Nonpayment Cases?
When a tenant stops paying rent, landlords cannot simply change the locks and remove the tenant’s personal belongings. New York law requires landlords to follow a formal legal process to regain possession and/or collect rent.
The first step is to issue a written rent demand, also sometimes referred to as a pay-or-quit notice. This gives the tenant an opportunity to pay the balance due within a set time period (usually 14 days) before legal action is filed. If the tenant fails to pay or respond, you can file a Nonpayment Petition and Notice of Petition in Housing Court.
At that point, the court will schedule a hearing. Depending on the facts, the case may end with:
- Payment of rent arrears and restoration of the lease,
- A payment agreement negotiated between both parties, or
- A judgment and warrant of eviction if the tenant still refuses to comply
The rules surrounding this legal process are highly technical. As a result, landlords who attempt to handle cases on their own often experience delays and, in some cases, outright dismissals of their cases.
Why Should I Hire an NYC Landlord Lawyer With Stark Law PLLC?
Our law firm focuses exclusively on landlord representation, giving us extensive experience in resolving both simple and complex nonpayment disputes. We know how to present cases like these effectively and will ensure every legal requirement is met from start to finish.
Here’s what sets Stark Law PLLC apart:
- Decades of experience handling landlord-tenant cases across the New York City Metro Area
- Exceptional success rates in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Queens
- Comprehensive case management, from rent demands to Housing Court appearances
- Strong negotiation skills for securing payment plans and settlements
- Aggressive litigation when tenants refuse to comply
- Discounts for veterans and police officers, honoring those who serve our communities
Whether your tenant has missed one month or several, we’ll tailor a strategy that fits your goals and keeps your building in compliance with all legal standards. Contact our law offices today for more information.
Call our Experienced NYC Landlord Attorneys Today for a Free Consultation
If your tenant has stopped paying rent in New York, don’t wait until the problem worsens. The sooner you act, the more options you’ll have to recover your losses.
Contact Stark Law PLLC today at (718) 792-1200 or reach out online to schedule a consultation with an experienced NYC landlord attorney. We’re here to take the burden of enforcement off your shoulders so you can focus on managing your property.