⚖️ Immigrant Tenant Rights

Purpose:

This page explains protections for tenants who are immigrants, undocumented, mixed-status, or concerned about legal status while dealing with landlords, housing, or public agencies.

🏛 Housing Rights Apply To All Tenants

• Landlords are not allowed to ask about or demand information about your immigration status.
• It does not matter what kind of documentation you have — you still have the right to:
  • Safe, habitable housing
  • Request repairs
  • Join the tenant union
  • Report landlord violations
  • Defend yourself in Housing Court
• Landlords may not threaten or harass tenants about their status.

🛡 Retaliation Is Illegal

• It is illegal for landlords to:
  • Threaten you with deportation or report you to any federal agency
  • Use your immigration status as an excuse to evict or harass you
  • Refuse to make repairs or honor lease agreements based on status

📞 You Have The Right To Organize

• All tenants, regardless of status, have the right to:
  • Join the tenant union
  • Attend union meetings
  • File complaints with the city about unsafe housing
  • Request legal assistance
• Membership in the union is always confidential.

🚪 No Entry Without Permission

• Your landlord cannot enter your home without proper notice.
• No law enforcement or public official may enter your home without a proper court warrant.
• You do not need to open your door to anyone unless legally required by a court order.

🧾 Court Protections Exist

• Housing Court does not require proof of immigration status to defend yourself against eviction or illegal landlord behavior.
• You have the right to be represented by legal aid or an attorney.

⚠ If You Feel Threatened or Harassed

• Contact the Tenant Union immediately.
• Do not respond to threats from landlords about your status.
• You may also contact trusted legal aid organizations experienced with immigrant tenants.

🤝 Support Resources