The rent freeze is here: what it means if you're rent-stabilized

On June 25, 2026, the Rent Guidelines Board voted 7 to 1 to freeze rents on rent-stabilized apartments: a 0% increase on both one-year and two-year renewal leases. It's the first time in the board's history that both lease terms got a zero. The freeze applies to renewals that begin between October 1, 2026 and September 30, 2027, and it fulfills the pledge Mayor Mamdani ran on.

Who it covers

Rent-stabilized apartments only: roughly one million units, about 40 percent of the city's rental housing. Most are in buildings with six or more units built before 1974, plus some newer buildings that got a tax break or subsidy in exchange for stabilizing their rents. If your lease has a Rent Stabilization Rider attached, you're covered.

Who it doesn't

Market-rate apartments, rent-controlled units (a smaller, older program), and most condos and co-ops. And timing matters: if your renewal started before October 1, 2026, last year's guidelines apply to it (3 percent on a one-year lease, 4.5 percent on a two-year lease) until it runs out.

What to check on your renewal

Your landlord has to offer you a renewal on the state's form, 90 to 150 days before your lease ends. Look at the start date. If it's October 1, 2026 or later, both the one-year and two-year options should show a 0% increase. If a renewal shows an increase and the start date is in the freeze window, don't sign it; call us or the state's Office of Rent Administration.

What the freeze doesn't change

The board's vote covers renewal leases. Separate rules still govern what an owner can charge on a vacancy, and increases tied to building-wide or apartment improvements go through the state, not the board. If you're being asked to pay something beyond your current rent, ask what it is and get it in writing.

Not sure if you're stabilized?

Your lease usually says so. If it doesn't, request your apartment's rent history from New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR). It's free, it lists every registered rent going back years, and it's the fastest way to settle the question. We're glad to help you read it.

If you own a stabilized building

Your renewal rents are flat for leases starting in the freeze window, while insurance, labor and utilities aren't. Document operating costs carefully, talk to your lender before any refinancing conversation, and make sure every renewal goes out on the correct form with the correct date. The board votes every year, so this freeze covers one cycle; what happens for leases starting October 2027 will be decided next June.