tenant.Get Free Help →
NYC Housing Court Glossary

Undertenant

Plain EnglishYou're renting from the tenant, not the landlord

Legal Definition

A person renting the apartment from the primary tenant, not directly from the landlord. Subtenants have legal rights but limitations — in rent-stabilized apartments, subletting generally requires landlord approval.

💡
Practical Tip

Your rights exist but are different from a primary tenant's. Get clarity on your situation before court.

Have a question about Undertenant in your specific situation?

Ask VERA — it's free →
Related Terms
Succession Rights →Traverse Hearing →Vacate a Default Judgment →Warrant of Eviction →

Work through your situation with VERA.

Ask any housing question. VERA walks you through NYC housing court step by step — for free.

Start with TENANT — it's free

TENANT is an informational tool, not a law firm. Nothing here is legal advice.