NYS Housing and Anti‑Discrimination Notice

It is illegal for housing providers, brokers, or landlords to treat someone differently because of a protected characteristic. These protections cover every stage of the housing process — from viewing and applying, to renting, buying, or securing a mortgage.

• Race, creed, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status
• Sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression
• Age, disability, military status, or marital status
• Status as a victim of domestic violence
• Lawful source of income (such as housing vouchers or subsidies)
• Familial status (presence of children under 18)

Some of the most frequent violations include:

• Refusing to rent, sell, or show housing because of a protected characteristic.
• Charging higher rent, deposits, or fees based on who you are or how you pay.
• Refusing to rent to families with children or imposing extra conditions on them.
• Directing (or “steering”) tenants or buyers to certain neighborhoods based on race or origin.
• Denying housing because income comes from vouchers or other legal assistance programs.
• Failing to make exceptions to rules — like denying service or support animals despite a “no pets” policy.
• Carrying out a landlord’s or seller’s discriminatory preferences or instructions.

If you believe your fair housing rights have been violated, you have the right to take action. You can:

• Call the New York State Department of State at (518) 474‑4429
• Contact the New York State Division of Human Rights at (844) 862‑8703

Complaints can be filed directly with these agencies. Real estate offices are also required to display this notice prominently, including at open houses.

Assistance is available statewide. You can reach out to regional Division of Human Rights offices in:

• Binghamton
• Buffalo
• Hauppauge
• New York City
• Utica

Albany Office: One Commerce Plaza, 99 Washington Avenue, P.O. Box 22001, Albany, NY 12201‑2001 • Customer Service: (518) 474‑4429 • Website: dos.ny.gov • Email: help@dos.ny.gov