Rent Stabilization in Staten Island

Last updated: 2026-01-28

A comprehensive guide to rent stabilization protections for Staten Island tenants, including how to verify your building's status and your rights.

Want to skip straight to checking your own building? Use the RentCheckMe address checker.

Key Takeaways

  • Coverage: Buildings with 6+ units built 1947-1974, or receiving J-51/421-a tax benefits
  • Rent Increase Cap: 2.75% for 1-year leases, 5.25% for 2-year leases (2024-2025 guidelines)
  • Just Cause Protection: Yes - landlords can only evict for specific legal reasons
  • Administration: NYC Rent Guidelines Board sets annual increases; HCR administers

Overview of Rent Stabilization in Staten Island

In Staten Island, some residential rental units are protected by rent stabilization, though the borough has fewer rent stabilized buildings than other parts of New York City due to its housing stock being predominantly single-family homes. Rent stabilization is administered by NYS Homes and Community Renewal (HCR).

Rent stabilized apartments in Staten Island are primarily found in larger apartment complexes in areas like St. George, Stapleton, and along the North Shore.

Who Is Covered by Rent Stabilization?

Buildings are typically rent stabilized if they:

  • Have 6 or more units and were built between 1947 and 1974
  • Received J-51 or 421-a tax benefits (even if built after 1974)
  • Were decontrolled from rent control but remain in the rent stabilization system

The official list of rent stabilized buildings is maintained by HCR and published by the NYC Rent Guidelines Board.

Rent Increase Limits

For rent stabilized apartments, the NYC Rent Guidelines Board sets the maximum allowable rent increases each year.

Current Rent Guidelines (2024-2025):

  • One-year leases: 2.75% increase
  • Two-year leases: 5.25% increase

These percentages are applied to your legal regulated rent. Landlords must give you 90-150 days notice before your lease expires.

Your Rights as a Rent Stabilized Tenant

As a rent stabilized tenant in Staten Island, you have several important rights:

  • Right to a lease renewal – Your landlord must offer you a renewal lease
  • Protection from eviction – Landlords can only evict for specific reasons
  • Required services – Your landlord must maintain heat, hot water, and repairs
  • Rent registration – Your landlord must register your rent with HCR annually
  • Right to challenge rent overcharges – You can file a complaint with HCR

How to Check If Your Building Is Rent Stabilized

  1. Check the official registry – Use RentCheckMe to search the NYC Rent Stabilized Building Registry
  2. Look at your lease – Rent stabilized leases must include a rent stabilization rider
  3. Check your rent history – Annual rent increase notices indicate rent stabilization
  4. Contact HCR – Call (718) 739-6400 or visit hcr.ny.gov

Resources for Staten Island Tenants

Important: This article is a high-level overview and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and regulations change, and individual circumstances vary. For specific questions, contact HCR or a qualified attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there many rent stabilized apartments in Staten Island?

Staten Island has fewer rent stabilized apartments than other NYC boroughs because its housing stock is predominantly single-family homes. Most rent stabilized units are in larger complexes along the North Shore.

How do I know if my Staten Island apartment is rent stabilized?

Check the NYC Rent Stabilized Building Registry, look for a rent stabilization rider in your lease, or contact HCR at (718) 739-6400.

Do the same rent stabilization rules apply in Staten Island as in Manhattan?

Yes, rent stabilization rules are the same across all five NYC boroughs. The NYC Rent Guidelines Board sets increases for all of New York City.

Other Areas in New York

Learn about rent stabilization in other areas of New York: