New York State Housing and Anti-Discrimination Disclosure Form (pdf file)

Understanding Your Rights Under the New York State Housing and Anti-Discrimination Disclosure Form

Fair housing is a fundamental right for all individuals. The New York State Housing & Anti-Discrimination Disclosure Form serves as a vital resource for tenants, landlords, and real estate professionals by ensuring transparency and compliance with anti-discrimination laws. This document outlines protections provided by federal, state, and local regulations to promote equal housing opportunities.

What Are Fair Housing Laws?

Fair housing laws are designed to prevent discrimination in any housing-related transaction. These regulations apply to property owners, landlords, real estate professionals, and others involved in selling, renting, or leasing properties. Violations of these laws can result in legal consequences, ensuring that every individual has an equal opportunity to secure housing without bias or discrimination.

Protected Characteristics Under the Law

Discrimination in housing based on specific characteristics is prohibited. It is illegal to discriminate against individuals due to:

• Race
• Creed
• Color
• National origin
• Sexual orientation
• Gender identity or expression
• Military status
• Sex
• Age
• Disability
• Marital status
• Lawful source of income
• Familial status

These protections ensure that all individuals have fair access to housing opportunities without facing bias based on personal characteristics.

Unlawful Housing Practices

The law clearly defines discriminatory practices that are prohibited, including:

• Denying Housing – Refusing to rent, sell, or lease a property based on a protected characteristic.
• Offering Different Terms – Providing different lease terms, prices, or conditions due to a person’s background.
• Steering – Directing buyers or renters toward or away from specific areas based on their characteristics.
• Blockbusting – Spreading fear that demographic changes will lead to decreased property values or increased crime rates.
• Following Discriminatory Landlord/Seller Requests – Accommodating a landlord’s or seller’s preference for or against certain individuals.
• Expressing Discrimination – Making statements, advertisements, or inquiries that indicate bias against any protected group.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

If you believe you have been discriminated against, you have the right to file a complaint. The following agencies provide assistance:

New York State Division of Human Rights (DHR)

• File online: www.dhr.ny.gov
• Visit a local DHR office – find locations at: https://dhr.ny.gov/contact-us
• Call the Fair Housing Hotline: (844)-862-8703

New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services

• File online: https://www.dos.ny.gov/licensing/complaint_links.html
• Call: (518) 474-4429

Conclusion

Fair housing laws are in place to create an equal and just housing market. The New York State Housing and Anti-Discrimination Disclosure Form helps individuals understand their rights and provides the necessary steps to report violations. By promoting fairness and accountability, these laws work to ensure that housing remains accessible to all.

Everyone deserves equal access to housing—know your rights, stay informed, and take action against discrimination.

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