Geneva, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 158 § 158-12
Denial of rights granted hereunder
Operative Text
A. It is an unfair practice under this chapter for any person, whether or not acting for profit, to harass, intimidate, or otherwise abuse or discriminate against any person or person's friends or associates because of the race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, familial status, or disability with the purpose or effect of denying to such person the rights granted in this chapter or the right to quiet or peaceful possession or enjoyment of any real property. B. Any unfair practice under this section which has the purpose or effect of denying a person the right to be free from discrimination in real estate practices or the right to quiet or peaceful possession or enjoyment of real property is an unfair real estate practice.
Section 158-12 of Geneva, N.Y., Code of Ordinances Chapter 158 prohibits any person—whether acting for profit or not—from harassing, intimidating, abusing, or discriminating against someone (or their friends and associates) on the basis of protected characteristics such as race, religion, sex, disability, or sexual orientation when the purpose or effect is to deny that person housing rights or peaceful enjoyment of property. When such conduct interferes with a person's right to be free from discrimination in real estate or their right to quiet possession, it is classified as an 'unfair real estate practice' under this chapter. The provision applies broadly, covering a wide range of conduct beyond formal lease or sale transactions.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating under Geneva, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 158 § 158-12 are generally expected to ensure that neither they nor anyone acting on their behalf engages in conduct that could be construed as harassment, intimidation, or discriminatory treatment toward tenants, applicants, or their associates based on protected characteristics. Compliant operators typically maintain clear, consistent, and documented communication practices that treat all residents equally regardless of race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or other protected status. Conduct that—even unintentionally—has the effect of interfering with a resident's peaceful enjoyment of their home may still be considered an unfair real estate practice under this section.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under Geneva, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 158 § 158-12, tenants have the right to be free from harassment, intimidation, or discriminatory conduct targeting them or their associates on the basis of protected characteristics such as disability, national origin, or familial status. If a tenant believes their right to quiet and peaceful enjoyment of their home is being denied through such conduct, they may have grounds to raise a violation of this section through the City of Geneva's local enforcement process or by consulting a tenant-rights organization familiar with New York fair housing law. Keeping records of incidents—including dates, descriptions, and any communications—is a practice commonly associated with pursuing a complaint under this chapter.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 7, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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