Whether you are a tenant, landlord, or have an interest in these resources, this section has helpful information about finding or listing an apartment. If accessibility is a concern, you can access links to helpful housing organizations for the disabled or check a database that ranks residential properties for accessible standards.
Laws exist to protect tenants and landlords. In these Web pages, you can read about Westchester's rent control and rent stabilization laws, access the New York State Attorney General's Office Tenant's Rights Guide, learn about a tenant's right to organize and how to mediate and resolve disputes with a landlord and find out about code enforcement and what actions to take if your apartment is not habitable.
The effects of lead paint can be harmful to children. Know what to do if you suspect your home was previously painted with lead paint.
Affordable Housing
If you are interested in housing opportunities and want to be notified of upcoming fair and affordable homes for sale or rent you can register at Housing Opportunities Sign-Up or visit the Homeseeker Web page where current available affordable housing is listed. Or check the HUD Income Limits page to see if you qualify.
Housing Resource Guide for Autism Spectrum Disorder/Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
The Westchester Institute for Human Development (WIHD) created a Housing Resource Guide for families seeking housing in Westchester County for their adult children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. The guide:
- contains an overview of housing options in Westchester and describes available paths and options for an individual and their family.
- lists the resources that can affect housing opportunities and can lead to the creation of housing stock - such as governmental subsidies and incentives to home builders.
- describes housing options in the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) certified system and other state systems.
- explains how to begin to create a housing plan, how to choose from the services and options available, and lists resources and programs for housing developers.
Discrimination
The Fair Housing Laws and Fair Lending Laws make it illegal for persons involved in a housing search to be discriminated against. This includes the actions of landlords, advertisers, appraisers, bankers and home inspectors. If you believe you are a target of discrimination, you can find out what you can do and where to go for help.
Rental Assistance
Rental assistance is available for low-income households and for those dealing with health care issues, such as AIDS.
If you are in danger of being from your home, find out about one-time back rent and utility assistance, or legal counseling for eviction prevention to help you remain in your home.