New York, NY – The New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development today announced an update to its ABCs of Housing guide, aimed at providing crucial information on housing rules and regulations for owners and tenants. This comprehensive booklet is designed to empower New Yorkers with knowledge of their rights and responsibilities while offering guidance on accessing assistance for building maintenance, affordable housing resources, and more. Property owners are required to let tenants know about their ability to obtain a copy of the ABCs of Housing by posting a notice at the building; HPD has also redesigned this notice to include a QR code for easier access to the document for tenants.
"Laser-focused as we are on making sure all New Yorkers have safe and affordable housing, we are thrilled to present the new edition of the ABCs of Housing," said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. "The ABCs of Housing is a major resource for tenants and owners to learn their rights and address problems in their homes. This is another win for our multi-pronged effort to provide the best housing and resources for New Yorkers."
"The ABCs of Housing guides tenants and property owners through their rights and responsibilities and ensures they have the necessary tools to keep their homes safe and in good condition," said HPD Commissioner Adolfo Carrión Jr. "From enforcement measures and navigating housing court to affordable housing opportunities and preservation loan programs, New York City offers help and support to renters and owners, as we work to ensure our city provides a decent home for everyone."
“Thanks to HPD for updating the ABC’s of Housing, a comprehensive and readable guide to the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords in NYC. The guide informs you of your rights so you can be safe in your home, and shares information about available housing assistance,” said Councilmember Pierina Sanchez.
The 2024 version of the ABCs of Housing for landlords incorporates updates to address evolving concerns and regulatory changes. New additions include an updated section on enhanced enforcement programs and provisions covering recent legislation such as self-closing doors and lead-based paint regulations. Additionally, the guide now includes a dedicated section highlighting important notices, postings, deadlines, and filings for owners, including property registration and annual bed bug filing requirements, along with updated civil penalties and violation correction schedules. Furthermore, it provides information on LL97 (Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reporting and Reduction), reflecting HPD's commitment to environmental sustainability.
For tenants, the updated ABCs of Housing includes a new section on fire safety tips that addresses lithium-ion battery safety, and much more, while reinforcing guidance on maintaining a healthy home, understanding the complaint, violation, and enforcement process, navigating housing court procedures, and accessing other important resources such as Housing Court and the Tenant Helpline.
In a significant design upgrade, the ABCs of Housing now features a flipbook format, presenting separate versions tailored for owners and tenants. Each version showcases distinct covers shot by HPD employees, celebrating the city's diverse communities. The cover page's underside acknowledges each employee, their respective photograph and work unit, and the boroughs where the photos were taken.
The ABCs of Housing guide serves as a valuable resource for individuals navigating the complexities of housing regulations and seeking support services. It offers comprehensive information on rights and responsibilities, apartment safety measures, affordable housing resources, and essential contact information for housing-related issues. Currently available in multiple languages, including Arabic, Bengali, Chinese, French, Haitian Creole, Korean, Polish, Russian, Spanish and Urdu.
The updated ABCs of Housing guide can be obtained through various channels, including the HPD website, local HPD offices, the HPD Mobile Outreach Van, which visits communities throughout the city during the spring, summer, and fall, and 311.
For more information on HPD’s ABCs of Housing, please visit nyc.gov/abcsofhousing.
