Succession Rights
Succession rights allow qualifying family members of a rent-regulated tenant to take over the lease (and its regulated status) when the tenant of record dies or permanently vacates. Under DHCR regulations, the successor generally must have co-resided in the unit as a primary residence for at least two years immediately before the tenant's departure (one year for seniors and persons with disabilities), with family defined to include both enumerated relatives and non-traditional family relationships shown by the facts.
- Where it applies
- NYS / NYC
- When it comes up
- Tenancy transitions; renewals; estate events
- Property types
- Rent stabilized and rent controlled units
In practice
Succession claims turn on documentary co-residency evidence (tax filings, IDs, utility records). Operators should evaluate claims on the DHCR criteria, not on lease signatures - a valid successor is the tenant, whether or not the owner ever signed a lease with them.
Read more in the Knowledge Base
- Succession Rights in Rent-Stabilized Apartments - RSC §2523.5 ComplianceLandlords
- Seniors and Age-Related Housing ProtectionsRenters
- Roommate Law Compliance - RPL §235-fLandlords
- Understanding Rent-Stabilized vs Market-Rate LeasesRenters
- AI-Driven Leasing Optimization: Reducing Days on Market ThroughLandlords
Related terms
- CityFHEPS
- DRIE (Disability Rent Increase Exemption)
- FARE Act (Fairness in Apartment Rental Expenses Act)
- Individual Apartment Improvement (IAI) Increase
- Legal Regulated Rent
- Major Capital Improvement (MCI) Increase
- New York City Rent Guidelines Board (RGB)
- New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR/HCR)
- Preferential Rent
- Renewal Lease Notice Window (90-150 Days)
General information, not legal, tax or financial advice.