NYC Housing Court Guide
Going to NYC Housing Court
Without a Lawyer
Most tenants in NYC Housing Court don't have a lawyer. That doesn't mean you're helpless. If you show up, understand the process, and know your rights — you have a real chance at a good outcome.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Always verify your situation with a licensed attorney or official NYC resources.
What Is NYC Housing Court?
NYC Housing Court (officially the Housing Part of Civil Court) handles disputes between landlords and tenants. The two main case types are:
Nonpayment Cases
Your landlord is claiming you owe unpaid rent. These cases often settle with a payment agreement. You can raise defenses like conditions in the apartment, repairs not made, or errors in the amount claimed.
Holdover Cases
Your landlord wants you to vacate — because your lease ended, they allege a violation, or they claim you're not the rightful tenant. These cases tend to be more complex and contested.
Before Your Court Date
- Read your court papers. What type of case is it? What courthouse? What part (courtroom) number? What date and time?
- Gather your documents. Your lease, rent receipts, bank statements showing payments, photos of apartment conditions, and any letters or texts from your landlord.
- Look for free legal help. NYC's Right to Counsel program may assign you a free attorney. Legal Aid Society and Legal Services NYC also offer help to income-qualifying tenants. Call ahead — don't wait until the morning of court.
- Know your defenses. Even if you owe rent, poor housing conditions, landlord harassment, or procedural errors in the case filing can be defenses. Write everything down.
What Happens on Your Court Date
Housing Court can be loud, crowded, and confusing. Here's what to expect:
- Arrive early. Courts open around 9 AM. Go to the tenant help center or Housing Court Assistance Center first — they can review your papers and explain your options for free.
- Check in at your part. Find the courtroom (called a "part") listed on your papers. Tell the court officer you're present.
- Calendar call. The judge or court attorney will call your case. You'll get a brief chance to speak. This is not usually the full trial — it's more of a check-in.
- You can ask for more time. Say you're not ready and request an adjournment. Courts generally grant one. Use that time to prepare or find a lawyer.
- Settlement talks. Often the landlord's attorney will approach you to negotiate. You don't have to agree to anything on the spot. Read every document carefully before signing.
What to Bring
- Photo ID
- A copy of your lease
- All rent receipts and proof of payment (bank statements, money order stubs, app records)
- Photos of any apartment conditions (mold, leaks, no heat, pests)
- Any letters, texts, or emails from your landlord
- The court papers you received
- A notebook to write things down
Your Rights in Housing Court
- You have the right to a hearing before any eviction takes place.
- You can raise counterclaims — for example, asking the court to order your landlord to make repairs.
- You can request an HP Action (Housing Part action) to force your landlord to fix conditions.
- If you signed an agreement under pressure and didn't understand it, you may be able to challenge it.
- If you qualify, you have the right to a free attorney under NYC's Right to Counsel law.
Have a court date coming up and need to understand your situation?
Prepare with TENANT — it's free →Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go to Housing Court without a lawyer?
Yes. Going 'pro se' (self-represented) is common in NYC Housing Court. The court has help centers, and you have rights regardless. That said, a lawyer — especially a free one through Right to Counsel — can make a significant difference.
What happens at my first court date?
Your first appearance is usually a brief calendar call, not a full trial. You can request more time (an adjournment) to prepare, find legal help, or negotiate. Most cases don't go to trial on the first date.
Can I negotiate with my landlord at court?
Yes. Many cases settle through a 'stipulation' — a written agreement that might set up a payment plan, require repairs, or give you time to move. Never sign anything you don't understand. Ask the help center to review it.
What if I missed my court date?
Go to the courthouse as soon as possible and file an Order to Show Cause to vacate (cancel) the default judgment. Bring a good reason for why you missed, and any supporting documents. Act fast — delays hurt.
Where is NYC Housing Court?
There are Housing Court locations in each borough: Manhattan (111 Centre Street), Brooklyn (141 Livingston Street), Bronx (1118 Grand Concourse), Queens (89-17 Sutphin Blvd), and Staten Island (927 Castleton Avenue).