New York City Housing Discrimination Lawyers

NYC Housing Discrimination Attorneys Ensuring Tenants Have A Right To Fair Housing

Finding a safe, affordable place to live is one of the most important things you do for your family. You deserve a fair chance to live where you choose. Unfortunately, New York City landlords still discriminate against people illegally. When they do, the lawyers at Himmelstein Gribben & Joseph LLP are ready to step in to fight against such discrimination. We only represent tenants’ rights in the New York area.

Housing Discrimination Is Against The Law

Many laws make it illegal for landlords to discriminate against protected classes of people, including federal, state and New York City Human Rights Law. That means when you apply for an apartment in New York, the landlord cannot consider the following when deciding whether to rent to you:

• Race
• National origin
• Religion
• Age (though senior-only housing is permitted)
• Sex, including sexual orientation and gender identity
• Family status and marital status
• Disability
• Military status

If you are applying within New York City, the law also bars the landlord from discriminating based on any lawful source of income, as well as discriminating against victims of domestic violence or sexual assault.

If you think a landlord discriminated against you, you have the right to file a claim with the New York City Commission on Human Rights. Our skilled attorneys will walk you through this process and fight for you every step of the way.

Accessibility Is A Growing Concern

As baby boomers age, our older population grows. That means we see an increasing need for accessible housing for people with disabilities and older adults. Under the law, landlords cannot discriminate based on age and must make reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities.

These accommodations may include hand rails in the bathroom or a ramp into the building. If you use a service animal, the landlord cannot deny you based on a “no pets” policy. A “reasonable” accommodation is one that is feasible from architectural and financial standpoints.

Many landlords and building owners would prefer not to spend the money adding these types of accommodations. Our law firm is not afraid to advocate for your right to an accessible apartment or building.

Understanding Housing Discrimination in NYC: Current Statistics and Challenges

Housing discrimination continues to be a significant challenge in New York City, where diverse populations encounter barriers to fair housing due to factors like race, ethnicity, gender, disability, and income level. Understanding the prevalence and impact of this discrimination is essential for addressing disparities and ensuring equitable housing opportunities across all NYC neighborhoods.

Key Statistics on NYC Housing Discrimination

• Race and Ethnicity: According to recent data, racial and ethnic discrimination remains one of the most reported forms of housing bias in NYC. Black and Latino renters are among the most affected, experiencing higher rates of rental denials, increased scrutiny, and less favorable rental terms. Studies show that these groups are 2-3 times more likely to face discrimination compared to white renters in NYC.
• Income-Based Discrimination: Many landlords and property managers engage in “source-of-income” discrimination, refusing to rent to tenants who rely on government assistance, such as Section 8 vouchers. Despite legal protections, it is reported that around 30% of low-income renters experience this type of discrimination. This practice disproportionately impacts minorities, as they are more likely to use housing assistance programs.
• Disability Discrimination: NYC residents with disabilities also face housing challenges. The city’s Human Rights Commission receives numerous complaints annually about landlords refusing to make necessary accommodations or provide accessible units. An estimated 25% of disabled individuals in NYC report having difficulty finding housing that meets their needs due to discriminatory practices or lack of accessibility.
• LGBTQ+ Discrimination: Discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals in housing is also a significant concern. Studies show that about 20% of LGBTQ+ renters face discriminatory practices in NYC, including denial of housing, higher security deposits, and refusal to accommodate same-sex couples. This discrimination often forces individuals to seek housing in less diverse or less desirable areas.

Addressing the Challenges

While NYC has strong protections under the Human Rights Law, enforcing these rights remains a challenge. The NYC Commission on Human Rights actively investigates cases of housing discrimination, but the sheer volume of complaints highlights the persistent gaps in equitable housing access. Additionally, the city has implemented programs aimed at educating landlords and tenants about housing rights, yet systemic biases continue to hinder progress.

Call Our New York City Housing Discrimination Lawyers Today

Our housing discrimination lawyers are ready to help you fight for the fair housing you deserve. Contact Himmelstein Gribben & Joseph LLP today by calling 212-349-3000 or filling out our online form. We represent clients across New York including Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens and Staten Island.