Brooklyn Source of Income Protections for Renters

Housing and Building Standards New York 3 Minutes Read · published February 02, 2026 Flag of New York

Renters in Brooklyn, New York who use lawful sources of income such as Section 8 vouchers, public assistance, pensions, or other lawful payments are protected from housing discrimination under New York City law. This guide explains what protections apply in Brooklyn, who enforces them, how to report discrimination, and practical steps tenants and landlords can take to comply with the rules. It summarizes official municipal resources and the complaint process so Brooklyn renters know their rights and next steps when they face source-of-income discrimination.

What source-of-income protections cover

The city’s human rights framework bars landlords and brokers from refusing housing, imposing different terms, or advertising exclusions based on a prospective tenant’s lawful source of income. Protections typically include:

  • Refusal to rent, refuse to negotiate, or evict based on lawful income source.
  • Different lease terms, added fees, or higher deposits tied to the form of income.
  • Advertising or listings that exclude voucher holders or other lawful income recipients.

The New York City Commission on Human Rights publishes guidance on housing discrimination for lawful source of income protections and how they apply to rental listings and leasing practices NYC Commission on Human Rights guidance[1].

Using a housing voucher does not remove a renter’s right to be considered for housing.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by the New York City Commission on Human Rights and through civil courts. The official enforcement page describes remedies, investigative procedures, and the options for filing complaints.

  • Enforcer: New York City Commission on Human Rights investigates housing discrimination complaints and may bring administrative prosecutions.
  • Monetary penalties: specific fine amounts are not specified on the cited page; see the agency for case-specific remedies.
  • Escalation: information on first, repeat, or continuing offence escalation is not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: cease-and-desist orders, injunctive relief, mandated policy changes, and other corrective measures are listed as possible outcomes.
  • Inspections and investigations: complaints trigger an investigation by the Commission with opportunities for interviews and document requests.

To file a complaint with the Commission online or by phone, use the agency’s complaint page which explains required information and next steps File a complaint with the NYC Commission on Human Rights[2]. If the Commission does not resolve the matter administratively, complainants may pursue civil litigation in court.

File complaints promptly; procedural deadlines can limit remedies.

Applications & Forms

The Commission provides an online complaint intake form and instructions for submitting evidence and declarations; fees for filing a Commission complaint are not specified on the cited page. For the controlling municipal law text and definitions, consult the city’s administrative code online New York City Administrative Code[3].

Action steps for renters and landlords

  • Renters: document the interaction (emails, texts, ads) and save application receipts and screening results.
  • Report: file an online complaint with the NYC Commission on Human Rights and include copies of relevant documents.
  • Landlords: update listings and lease policies to remove any language excluding lawful income sources and train staff on compliance.
  • Seek counsel: consider legal aid or tenant advocacy services for representation in administrative or court proceedings.

FAQ

Can a landlord refuse to accept a Section 8 voucher?
No. Under New York City human rights protections, refusing to rent because a tenant uses a Section 8 voucher or other lawful source of income is prohibited; file a complaint with the NYC Commission on Human Rights to report an alleged violation.
How do I prove source-of-income discrimination?
Collect written communications, advertisement screenshots, application results, and witness statements. Submit these with your complaint to the Commission for investigation.
What remedies can I expect if discrimination is found?
Possible remedies include orders to stop discriminatory practices, policy changes, and case-by-case monetary or injunctive relief; exact amounts are not specified on the agency guidance page.

How-To

  1. Gather evidence: save emails, texts, screenshots of listings, application receipts, and any written notices.
  2. Complete the Commission complaint form online or call the agency to start an intake.
  3. Submit supporting documents and a clear timeline of events to the investigator assigned to your case.
  4. Participate in interviews and mediation if offered; the Commission may seek conciliation or pursue enforcement.
  5. If unsatisfied, consider civil litigation with legal counsel after administrative remedies are exhausted.

Key Takeaways

  • Brooklyn renters are protected under New York City law from discrimination based on lawful source of income.
  • File complaints with the NYC Commission on Human Rights promptly and provide clear documentation.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] NYC Commission on Human Rights guidance on housing and source of income
  2. [2] File a complaint with the NYC Commission on Human Rights
  3. [3] New York City Administrative Code - publications

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