Everyone Has the Right to Fair Housing
In New York, it’s not just a suggestion. It’s the law. Whether you’re buying your first home, searching for a rental, or selling property, no one can treat you differently based on personal characteristics. That includes race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, family status, disability.
What’s Protected in New York?
Here’s a quick list of the things that can’t legally be used against you in a housing decision:
- Race or color
- National origin or ethnic background
- Religion or religious practices
- Sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation
- Age
- Marital or family status (yes, kids included)
- Disability (mental or physical)
- Immigration or citizenship status
- Military status
- Lawful source of income (like Section 8, child support, or disability benefits)
- Status as a victim of domestic violence
- Arrest or conviction record (within certain limits)
When Does Fair Housing Law Apply?
Anytime you’re trying to get a place to live or trying to sell one. That includes:
- Renting an apartment
- Applying for a mortgage
- Shopping for a home
- Touring properties
- Negotiating terms of a sale
- Dealing with a property manager or landlord
- Selling your home with an agent
What Discrimination Can Look Like
Sometimes it’s obvious. Sometimes it’s subtle. Here are a few red flags:
- You’re told a unit “just rented” but it’s still available.
- A seller only shows you homes in certain neighborhoods.
- A landlord says they don’t accept housing vouchers or unemployment income.
- You hear comments like “This building isn’t really great for kids” or “We try to keep a certain type of community here.”
- Your loan application gets denied for unclear reasons—while others with similar finances are approved.
If Something Feels Off, You’re Probably Right.
Discrimination isn’t always loud. But it’s always illegal.
If you think your fair housing rights were violated, you can file a complaint with:
- New York State Division of Human Rights
dhr.ny.gov | (888) 392-3644 - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
hud.gov/fairhousing | (800) 669-9777
You can also speak with a local fair housing organization or legal aid group for help.
Bottom Line
You have the right to choose where you live, how you live, and who you live with—without anyone getting in your way. Don’t let someone else’s bias decide your future.
