The New York State Housing and Anti-Discrimination Disclosure Form (DOS-2156) is published by the NYS Department of State. It explains your fair housing rights when you buy, sell, rent or lease a home. Real estate brokers and salespersons are required by New York State law to provide it to you.
What the form says
It is unlawful for any property owner, landlord, property manager or other person who sells, rents or leases housing to discriminate based on protected characteristics, which include, but are not limited to: race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military status, sex, age, disability, marital status, lawful source of income or familial status. Real estate professionals must also follow all fair housing and anti-discrimination laws.
Real estate professionals may not
- Discriminate when negotiating a sale, rental or lease, including saying a property is not available when it is.
- Offer different terms or prices because of a protected characteristic.
- Discriminate because it is the preference of a seller or landlord.
- “Steer” buyers or renters toward or away from certain neighborhoods, locations or buildings.
- “Blockbust” — claim that a neighborhood is changing because of who is moving in, to suggest values or quality will drop.
- Pressure a client or employee to break the law.
- Express discrimination in any statement, advertisement, application or inquiry.
How to report discrimination
- New York State Division of Human Rights: (844) 697-3471 · dhr.ny.gov
- New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services: (518) 474-4429 · dos.ny.gov
There is no fee for these services, and it is unlawful for anyone to retaliate against you for filing a complaint.
This page is a plain-language summary for your convenience. The official New York State Department of State document governs.