Legal Protections Backed by New York State Law

1. Right to Organize Without Retaliation

In New York, mobile home tenants cannot be punished, harassed, or evicted for forming or participating in a tenant organization. They even have the right to meet on-site in common areas, free of charge .

A Tenant Board can invoke this protection to hold meetings and mobilize without fear of retaliation.

2. Capping (and Contesting) Rent Increases

State law limits lot rent increases to 3% per year, covering rent, fees, assessments, and utilities unless justified by rising operating costs, property taxes, or capital improvements up to 6%. Anything above needs to be court approved.

A Tenant Board can organize affected owners to collectively challenge unjustified increases in court.

3. Change of Use & Relocation Protections

If a park owner plans a change of use (e.g., redevelopment), they must notify residents in writing and offer a stipend of up to $15,000 per household before eviction can proceed .

Tenant Boards can ensure all residents receive proper notice and, potentially, organize a group response—whether that's collective legal action, negotiations, or exploring options to buy the park.

4. Strong Rent-to-Own Safeguards

Rent-to-own agreements must be clearly written and include key disclosures. During the agreement:

The landlord maintains habitability obligations.

Annual leases must be offered.

Tenants receive annual, itemized payment statements.

Violation of these provisions can entitle tenants to refunds, contract cancellation, or even treble damages and attorney’s fees .

Tenant Boards can educate members on these protections, help monitor compliance, and coordinate legal challenges when necessary.

5. Eviction Protections & Communication Requirements

Evictions must be adjudicated through court; tenants are guaranteed due process .

If tenants fall behind on rent, landlords must issue a written 30-day notice detailing the amount owed before initiating eviction .

Tenant Boards can support residents in reviewing notices and ensuring landlords follow proper procedures.

---

How a Tenant Board Can Mobilize These Protections

Strategy How It Helps

Collective Legal Challenges Addresses rent hikes, unjust policies, or eviction threats together

Group Communication Boosts awareness of rights, pending changes, and deadlines

Information Sharing Clarifies rights under rent-to-own, habitability, and leasing laws

Negotiation and Advocacy Offers counterweight when park owners act improperly

Connection to Resources Facilitates partnerships with legal aid, housing nonprofits, and public officials

---

In summary, a Tenant Board in a New York mobile home park can give residents real protection by:

Empowering tenants to organize safely and effectively.

Contesting unfair rent hikes or fees.

Ensuring compliance with relocation and rent-to-own laws.

Safeguarding procedural protections against eviction.

Building collective support when enforcement is needed.