Table of Contents
What are fair housing rights?
It is illegal to discriminate in the sale or rental of housing, including against individuals seeking a mortgage or housing assistance, or in other housing-related activities. The Fair Housing Act prohibits this discrimination because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability.
Who investigates complaints filed with HUD?
FHEO
FHEO investigates complaints, which may be one or both of the following types: Discrimination under the Fair Housing Act (including housing that is privately owned and operated) Discrimination and other civil rights violations in housing and community development programs, including those funded by HUD.
What is housing discrimination examples?
What acts are considered to be housing discrimination?
- Refusing to sell, rent, or lease.
- Refusing to negotiate for a sale, rental, or lease.
- Saying that housing or an apartment is not available for inspection, sale, or rental when it is, in fact, available.
- Denying or withholding housing accommodations.
Is anxiety a disability under Fair Housing Act?
Under California law, the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), passed in 1974, protects disabled employees from being discriminated against in the workplace. Under the FEHA, stress, anxiety, arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome, depression, frequent urination, and PTSD would all qualify as disabilities.
Who can be held liable for a violation of fair housing law?
The short answer is that anyone can be held liable for a fair housing violation, and in some cases knowledge of the violation is not a defense. Generally, apartment communities are operated by management firms. In many cases, these firms act as agents of the owner.
Who enforces HUD?
HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) works to eliminate housing discrimination and promote civil rights and economic opportunity through housing. FHEO enforces fair housing laws. One of its roles is to investigate complaints of housing discrimination.