On Thursday, August 22nd, New York City announced a historic $1 million settlement with Parkchester Preservation Management, a prominent Bronx landlord, over allegations of housing discrimination against voucher holders. This settlement, the largest civil rights penalty of its kind in the city’s history, was secured by the New York City Commission on Human Rights (CCHR).
The settlement stems from accusations that Parkchester Preservation Management systematically excluded renters with housing vouchers from its 6,300-unit apartment complex. The landlord was found to have imposed minimum income requirements, non-refundable deposits, and other stringent conditions that effectively barred voucher holders from qualifying for apartments. These practices were in direct violation of New York City’s Human Rights Law, which has prohibited income-based housing discrimination since 2008.
As part of the settlement, Parkchester Preservation Management will not only pay the $1 million fine but also set aside 850 apartments specifically for voucher holders—another record-setting aspect of this case. This action is seen as a significant step towards addressing the ongoing issue of housing discrimination in New York City.
Mayor Eric Adams hailed the settlement as a major victory for tenants across the city, stating, “Today, our administration is using the full power of the legal system to tell New York City tenants: we’ve got your back.” He emphasized that the settlement is both a win for everyday New Yorkers seeking safe and affordable housing and a warning to other landlords who might consider similar discriminatory practices.
Despite the legal protections in place, income-based housing discrimination remains a pervasive issue in New York City. The CCHR continues to combat this form of discrimination through aggressive enforcement and innovative programs, including a new partnership with Fordham University’s Real Estate Institute, which aims to educate realtors and brokers on preventing illegal housing practices.
The settlement with Parkchester is part of a broader effort by the city to crack down on housing discrimination. Earlier in the week, New York Attorney General Letitia James also fined Shamco Management Corp. $400,000 for similar discriminatory practices in Harlem and Central Brooklyn.
This landmark case serves as a clear message that New York City is committed to ensuring equitable access to housing for all residents, regardless of their income source.
