New York Real Estate Salesperson ExaminationNew York State Specific Laws and RegulationsMedium
A landlord in New York City is considering refusing to rent an apartment to a prospective tenant because the tenant uses a wheelchair and the landlord believes the tenant would cause damage to the property. Which New York State law is most directly violated by this action?
- ANew York State Real Property Law
- BNew York State Executive Law Article 15 (Human Rights Law)
- CNew York State General Obligations Law
- DNew York State Multiple Dwelling Law
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. New York State Executive Law Article 15 (Human Rights Law)
New York State Executive Law Article 15, commonly known as the Human Rights Law, prohibits discrimination in housing based on disability, among other protected classes. Refusing to rent due to a tenant's use of a wheelchair is a direct violation.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This law covers various aspects of real property but is not the primary statute for anti-discrimination.
- C. This law deals with contracts, obligations, and other legal matters, not primarily housing discrimination.
- D. This law primarily governs the construction, maintenance, and safety of multiple dwellings.
NY Human Rights Law (Housing)
New York State Executive Law Article 15 prohibits discrimination in housing based on various protected characteristics, including disability, race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status, age, marital status, and familial status.
- Broader than federal Fair Housing Act in some protections.
- Applies to most housing transactions.
- Enforced by the NYS Division of Human Rights.
Memory trick: New York's Human Rights protect all in their homes.