June 4, 2025

Through the citywide “Stay Informed, Stay Connected NYC” campaign, HPD is making it easier for New Yorkers to access housing resources and support

NEW YORK, NY – This summer, as we have for the past seven  summers, the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) is hitting the road with a five-borough tour to connect directly with New Yorkers where they are. In partnership with local elected officials, HPD’s Outreach Van will bring housing information and in-person assistance to neighborhoods across the city, helping tenants, prospective applicants, and small property owners access the tools they need to stay informed and take action.

Resources and Support Available at Each Event

In a city of more than 8.26 million people, and a vacancy rate of just 1.4%, it’s critical that New Yorkers have the information they need to navigate the housing system. These events are designed to offer just that.

For Tenants & Prospective Applicants:

• Know Your Rights: Whether you rent or own, understanding your rights is the first step toward housing stability. HPD staff can provide the ABCs of Housing and answer questions on issues like where to go to get legal or financial assistance and what your rights are as tenants.
• File a Complaint: Experiencing unsafe conditions, unresolved repairs, or harassment? Staff will explain how to notify your landlord, file a housing code complaint and what to expect from the enforcement process.
• Get Ready for the Housing Lottery: Applying for affordable housing can be overwhelming. HPD staff will break down the process and explain how there are organizations who can help you submit a strong application.

For Homeowners & Small Property Owners:

• Finance Repairs and Upgrades: Learn about HPD programs that offer grants, low-interest loans, and technical assistance for essential repairs and energy-efficient improvements.
• Register Your Property: Not sure if your building is properly registered? HPD can help you check your status and understand how to get personal assistance to walk through the process.
• Resolve Code Violations: If you’ve received a violation notice, HPD staff can explain how to file with the agency once you have corrected it, avoid future penalties and what you need to know to maintain compliance.

This initiative ensures that all New Yorkers, whether they rent, own, or are seeking housing, can connect directly with HPD staff for timely, in-person support. Check the HPD Outreach Calendar for upcoming stops near you (weather permitting). We’ve already made stops in reaching neighborhoods including West Harlem, East Flatbush, Broadway Junction, Surrey Estates, and Morris Heights.

To bring the Outreach Van to your block, contact hpdoutreach@hpd.nyc.gov.

“With a 1.4% vacancy rate and nearly 90 percent of unassisted low-income households severely rent-burdened, the NYC Department of Housing and Preservation Development’s five-borough tour is the kind of initiative our communities need,” said NYC Council Member Pierina Sanchez, Chair on the Committee of Housing and Buildings. “I am excited to partner with HPD to engage directly with constituents in my district—sharing vital information about tenant rights and guiding them on how to properly file a housing complaint. I look forward to continuing our collaboration to deliver accessible, safe housing for New Yorkers.”

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