What is quiet enjoyment in a New York lease?
Quiet enjoyment is the tenant's legal right to use the rented unit free from interference by the landlord or third parties under landlord control. Every New York lease implies this covenant whether the lease says so or not. The landlord cannot harass the tenant, repeatedly enter without notice, or act in ways that substantially interfere with the tenant's use. Material interference may rise to constructive eviction, where the tenant can terminate the lease and recover damages. Quiet enjoyment is one of the strongest tenant protections, applied case-by-case by New York courts.
Source: New York common law
This is an informational answer based on New York common law as of early 2026. It is not legal advice. Housing law changes year to year and local ordinances (especially in rent-controlled or rent-stabilized cities) can override or add to state law. For contested cases, consult a New York-licensed attorney.