Homeowners Beware: Neighbor Access Rights Have Changed in New York
I have to admit, when I first heard about New York’s new neighbor access law, my first thought was, “Wait, my neighbor can just walk into my property?” If you’re like me, that might sound alarming at first. But here’s the thing: this law isn’t about random visits or nosy neighbors. It’s a carefully designed framework that lets homeowners temporarily access adjoining properties for specific repairs, restoration, or construction projects—legally and safely.
Signed by Governor Kathy Hochul on December 5, 2025, Senate Bill S3799 took effect immediately, and it’s already sparking a mix of reactions across the state. The goal is simple: allow essential work to move forward without getting stuck in endless disputes, while still protecting everyone’s property rights. In this article, I’ll walk you through what the law really means, when a neighbor can legally enter your property, and what you can do to protect yourself—and yes, I’ll share real-world examples and social reactions that give this law context.
The Law at a Glance: Senate Bill S3799
When I first read the details of Senate Bill S3799, signed by Governor Kathy Hochul on December 5, 2025, I realized just how specific and structured this new law is. It’s not about letting neighbors roam freely—it’s about creating a clear, legal pathway for homeowners who need access to adjoining properties to perform repairs, improvements, or construction. The goal is straightforward: get work done safely and efficiently while still respecting everyone’s property rights.
You might be wondering, “Who exactly can step onto my property?” Here’s how it breaks down.
Who Can Access Neighboring Property
Only a few people qualify under this law, and that’s intentional. Access is generally limited to:
- Homeowners or property owners conducting repairs or improvements
- Licensed contractors or agents acting on behalf of the property owner
- Individuals performing work that cannot reasonably be completed without entering a neighboring property
This means that casual visits, personal favors, or unapproved entry are all still off-limits. For clarity on the exact legal language, you can check the official New York State Senate summary of the bill.
Circumstances Covered
The law outlines specific types of work that may require temporary access. You should know that it includes:
- Pre-construction surveys or inspections
- Installation of monitoring or protective devices
- Scaffolding or weatherproofing measures
- Temporary or permanent relocation, extension, or offsetting of rooftop equipment (like vents or chimneys)
- Foundation work or structural supports where required by law or good construction practice
By listing these scenarios, the law clarifies exactly when entry is allowed, preventing misunderstandings and disputes.
Notice and Approval Requirements
Even if a neighbor qualifies to enter your property, there are strict procedural safeguards. From my experience in dealing with similar real estate regulations, these steps are crucial to protect both parties…