May 7, 2025

Monthly Housing Tips for 8.26 Million New Yorkers, From the Experts Who Know NYC Best

New York, NY – The Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) today introduced "Stay Informed, Stay Connected NYC"–a new initiative providing New Yorkers with clear, actionable information on tenant rights, landlord responsibilities, and the essentials of maintaining a safe, well-kept home. In a city of more than 8.26 million people, where the housing vacancy rate is just 1.4%, it's critical that residents have the tools to understand housing regulations and protect their homes. HPD will spotlight a specific housing topic each month–such as reporting issues with heat, hot water, or pests; navigating housing court; or understanding building maintenance rules–and equip New Yorkers with the knowledge they need to take action.

"As we take bold action on several fronts to confront our City's housing crisis, preserving and protecting the homes we already have is just as critical as building new ones," said Acting HPD Commissioner Ahmed Tigani. "Stay Informed, Stay Connected NYC is more than a campaign–it's a commitment to putting tools and answers into the hands of tenants and property owners alike, so they can protect their rights and their neighborhoods. This initiative is about making sure New Yorkers are not only heard–but equipped and empowered to keep their homes safe, secure, and strong."

HPD's teams respond to thousands of housing complaints every week, helping residents document and resolve issues that impact the safety and quality of their homes. From heating concerns in the winter to issues with pests or lead-based paint, HPD is committed to ensuring tenants live in safe, well-maintained conditions. More than 812,000 maintenance problems were reported citywide between July 2023 and June 2024–an average of 5,000 issues per week. HPD inspectors are actively dispatched to investigate these issues and make a direct impact on residents' daily lives.

Housing code enforcement is led by HPD's Office of Enforcement and Neighborhood Services (ENS), which includes more than 330 inspectors citywide. Over 200 of these inspectors are assigned to borough offices in the Bronx, Queens, Manhattan, and Staten Island, with two locations serving Brooklyn, with the rest assigned to special enforcement units such as our Lead-Based Paint Inspection Program or Alternative Enforcement Program. Housing inspectors are responsible for checking apartments for housing maintenance code violations and ensuring necessary repairs are made.

"HPD knows the importance of continuing to improve its communication with owners and tenants, building on our success with the comprehensive guide known as the ABCs of Housing, our outreach to our neighborhoods in coordination with our elected officials every summer through HPD In Your District, our special outreach events like Lead Poisoning Prevention Week in coordination with our sister agencies and our regular email bulletins to property owners.  Using all media channels, including reporters and social media, will only help us be better partners with everyone who is interested in making sure housing in New York City remains safe and in compliance," said Deputy Commissioner of HPD Enforcement, AnnMarie Santiago.

The "Stay Informed, Stay Connected NYC" campaign expands on the City's ongoing efforts to equip New Yorkers with the tools they need to maintain safe, stable housing. Building on existing initiatives–like webinars for property owners on lead-based paint and mold, educational materials distributed during inspections and regularly updated online resources–the campaign will introduce monthly topics paired with practical tips, downloadable guides, and step-by-step instructions that help tenants and landlords protect their homes and prevent issues before they arise.

This initiative is also part of HPD's broader efforts to deepen engagement with the community. HPD will continue to shape "Stay Informed, NYC" around the real needs of New Yorkers. HPD knows that our role in empowering people to maintain safe, stable housing for themselves and their families is as basic and important as responding to complaints.

"In a city facing a housing crisis and a historic low vacancy rate, it's more important than ever that New Yorkers understand their rights and know how to protect their homes," said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. "I applaud HPD for launching the 'Stay Informed, Stay Connected NYC' initiative, which empowers tenants with the knowledge they need to advocate for safe living conditions. Education is power–and by giving our communities clear, accessible information each month, we are taking real steps toward housing justice for all."

"Education is a critical part of what our government needs to do to level the playing field. The 'Stay Informed' campaign from HPD has the potential to be powerful resource toward making sure tenants know how to assert their rights, landlords understand their responsibilities, and everyone has access to the tools and resources they need. In a city as big and complex as ours, clear communication is key to keeping people in their homes," said Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez.