Legal Question in Real Estate Law in New York

You need to read your existing lease. It will set forth the conditions for automatic renewal, etc. In the absence of any restriction in the lease agreement, you may leave at or before the end of your tenancy.

I have not seen the existing lease, so I do not know what it states about automatic renewal or any other terms or conditions. Normal notice is usually 30 days, which usually means before the first of the month, to be effective the first of the month following, so if you gave notice before January 1, it would be effective February 1. I suggest you discuss this decision with your roommate, as a new roommate may need to be found before you leave, to take over your share of the rental. I also do not know if the current or renewal lease provides for "joint and several liability" which means that even if you have an understanding that you and roommate are equally responsible, landlord can just go after either one if there is a lease default. More facts are required in order to give more than a general response and the response could change if different or additional facts are involved. The response is not intended to be legal advice or as creating an attorney-client relationship.