Landlords guide
Leasing out your home on Long Island
Renting out a house or an apartment on Long Island means pricing it right, following New York's tenant laws and your town's rules, and choosing a great tenant fairly.
- 1
Check your town's rental rules
Many Long Island towns and villages require a rental permit or registration and an inspection, and accessory apartments need specific approvals. Check your town or village before listing.
- 2
Price the rent
A rental analysis compares similar homes for rent nearby. Pricing right shortens vacancy, which costs more than a slightly lower rent.
- 3
Prepare the home
Working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, safe heat and hot water, and the lead-based paint disclosure for homes built before 1978.
- 4
Market and screen fairly
Fair housing laws apply to every ad and every applicant. In New York that includes lawful source of income, so housing vouchers must be considered like any other income. Use the same written criteria for everyone.
- 5
Application and deposit rules
Application fees are capped at $20 (or the actual cost of the check). Security deposits are capped at one month's rent and must be returned with an itemized statement within 14 days after the tenant leaves.
- 6
Sign the lease
A clear written lease covering rent, term, utilities, pets, maintenance and renewal protects both sides.
Costs to plan for
| Leasing commission | As agreed in writing |
| Rental permit or registration | Set by your town or village |
| Insurance | A landlord policy (not a homeowner's policy) |
| Repairs and upkeep | Plan for about 1% of the home's value a year |
General information about Long Island and New York practice, current as of 2026, not legal or tax advice. Your attorney, lender and accountant give advice for your situation; laws and fees change, so confirm current figures. All guides
Town guides describe places, homes and amenities from public sources and are updated regularly; confirm anything important with the town or village. William Gomez, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson. Equal Housing Opportunity. We are committed to the Fair Housing Act: we never steer anyone toward or away from any community.