New York Landlords Sue to Block Mamdani Rent Freeze

A group of New York landlords filed a lawsuit to overturn a rent freeze on approximately 1 million rent-stabilized apartments. The measure was approved by the Rent Guidelines Board and will take effect on October 1, 2026.

The dispute pits landlords against tenants in a city marked by a shortage of affordable housing. It also raises questions about the influence of Mayor Zohran Mamdani over a body that must make technical and independent decisions. The freeze sets a 0% increase for 1 and 2-year contracts within the rent-stabilized regime. The resolution will cover renewals beginning between October 1, 2026 and September 30, 2027.

What Are Landlords Demanding?

Five landlord and management entities representing 8 buildings filed the lawsuit in the Staten Island Supreme Court. The action challenges the decision of the Rent Guidelines Board, known as RGB by its initials.

The plaintiffs argue that the freeze was an “arbitrary” decision influenced by the Mamdani administration. They are therefore requesting internal documents and a hearing to review how the decision was made. The lawsuit claims the mayor appointed members favorable to his electoral platform. It also accuses the city of using public resources to encourage pro-tenant activists to attend board hearings.

The landlords argue that the RGB manipulated its own data to justify a predetermined outcome. They contend that taxes, insurance, mortgages, repairs, and labor costs have risen significantly. Legal representation is handled by Randy Mastro, a former federal prosecutor and former New York City deputy mayor. Mastro served as an official during the administrations of Rudy Giuliani and Eric Adams.

Who Does the Freeze Protect?

The freeze does not cover all New York rental units. It only applies to rent-stabilized units, a regulated system that limits increases and provides renewal rights to tenants. The scope includes approximately 1 million apartments and benefits about 2.4 million residents. The Board approved the measure with 7 votes in favor and 1 against.

Generally, these homes are in buildings constructed before 1974 with 6 or more units. Some properties with tax benefits or public housing programs may also be covered. The protection will be valid for 1 and 2-year contracts renewed during the period set by the order. A landlord cannot apply an increase to a protected unit simply due to contract renewal. Since January 2026, a local law requires buildings with regulated units to display notices in English and Spanish. The notice must explain how to verify if the apartment is registered under that regime.

Why Does the Case Have Political Relevance?

Mamdani made housing affordability one of his main political promises. The RGB’s decision represents a victory for tenant organizations, but opens a legal conflict that could delay or modify its implementation. New York faces constant pressure on housing prices. For many Latino families