What Types of Housing are Covered by the New York City Human Rights Law?

The New York City Human Rights Law prohibits discrimination in private and public housing, land, and commercial spaces in New York City.  This includes privately-owned housing, public or government-subsidized housing, cooperatives and condominiums, and residential hotels.

The New York City Human Rights Law does not apply to rented rooms in non-government assisted housing where the owner resides. Residents of a two-family house where the owner or the owner's family resides are not covered if the available housing accommodation was not advertised. 

It also permits housing limited to the elderly or disabled under certain government restrictions, as well as gender-specific dormitory-type residences.

If you believe you have been the victim of discrimination, contact us to file a complaint. The New York City Human Rights Law requires that the complaint be filed within one year from the date of the last alleged act of discrimination.

If you would like to attend a free workshop on the New York City Human Rights Law, visit the events tab for upcoming workshop or visit the contact us tab to contact call the New York City Commission on Human Rights.