Tenants’ Rights in Supportive Housing

Even if you live in supportive housing, you still have tenants’ rights!

You have the right to court process before being evicted!

  • If you have been residing in your apartment for more than 30 days or have an occupancy or lease agreement, you cannot be evicted unless a housing court judge enters an eviction order.

    • This means your landlord or supportive housing program cannot change your apartment locks or prevent you from entering your building, even if you are “discharged” or “terminated” from your program.

    • You have the right to an attorney in an eviction proceeding.

You have the right to get repairs.

  • You have the right to call 311 to report conditions, and to send a certified mail letter to your landlord or service provider requesting repairs.

  • You have the right to start a case for repairs in housing court.

You have the right to request reasonable accommodations in your housing to meet your documented medical or psychological needs, which includes the right to an emotional support animal.

You have the right to live free from harassment, discrimination, or retaliation from your landlord or supportive housing provider.

  • This includes freedom from threats of retaliation, including threats of transfer, discharge, or loss of privileges, for raising concerns about your housing.

You have the right to organize with a tenants’ association or community organizing group for your housing rights.

Rights specific to tenants in PERMANENT (unlicensed) supported housing, including scattered site and single site/congregate units:

  • You cannot be transferred to another unit without your consent.

  • You have the right to have family live with you, and cannot be discharged/evicted due to a change in your family size.

  • You have the right to written receipts for rent.

  • You have the right to have guests visit you in your supportive housing unit at any time, including overnight visits.

  • Depending on your housing accommodation, you may have the right to have a roommate.

Rights specific to tenants in TRANSITIONAL (licensed) supportive housing, including Community Residence SROs, and Level II apartment treatment programs:

  • You have the right to receive a clearly written occupancy agreement from your provider.

  • You have the right to receive a timely and complete personal needs allowance.

  • You have the right to participate in a resident’s council or otherwise provide input into program rules and operations.

  • You have the right to file a grievance against your supportive housing provider through their internal grievance procedure or by contacting the New York State Office of Mental Health at 1-800-597-8481.