How can I protect myself when renting a house to someone?

Great question. I manage several properties in Michigan; both residential and commercial. The 3 most important things about rental properties is, in this order; 1. screen the tenant 2. screen the tenant, 3. screen the tenant. The only way you can predict future performance is to analyze past behavior. Remove emotion from the equation. Consult an attorney to draft your lease agreement. Invoke the services of a local real estate professional who has experience in this area. Like anything worth doing, there is risk, but these risks can be mitigated.

Not everyone is cut out to be a landlord. Protect yourself and vet the potential tenant. Get a good attorney for legal advice. Good tenants are hard to come by and in NY have more rights than landlords.