Croton-on-Hudson’s New ‘Good Cause’ Eviction Law Takes Effect

CROTON-ON-HUDSON, N.Y. — Local landlords may only evict tenants if they have good cause to do so under a new law that went into effect Feb. 7.

The village’s Board of Trustees adopted “good cause” eviction protections for renters at a meeting in January.

Mayor Brian Pugh said the new law will protect responsible tenants by giving them security to stay in their homes, as they can’t be evicted unless it is for a good reason.

“It balances the needs of tenants with the rights of property owners, ensuring that landlords and tenants who are acting in good faith are protected,” Pugh said, in an announcement.

Landlords may only terminate leases for certain reasons, such as non-payment of rent, a lease violation, illegal activity, creating a nuisance or damaging property. Other valid reasons include if the landlord wants to move into the home, demolish it or take it off the market. If a tenant denies the landlord access to the property, or refuses to agree with reasonable lease changes, those are also considered to be good cause reasons for an eviction.

The law does not cover affordable housing, rent-stabilized, or rent-controlled apartments, as these have separate regulations.

There are exemptions for newly constructed buildings (for a limited period), co-ops, condos, sublets, and small owner-occupied properties, according to village officials.

Find more information on the law on the village’s website.