Fair Housing Laws

When looking to buy or rent a property it is important to know that you are protected under fair housing laws. The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in the rental, sales, mortgage lending, and home insurance markets. Fair housing laws are some of the strongest civil rights statutes on the books. Federal and State laws make it illegal to discriminate against people when renting or purchasing a unit based on any of the following:

• Race
• Disability
• Color
• Ancestry
• Religious creed
• Marital status
• National Origin
• Family status (families with children under 18)
• Sex
• Veteran status or member in armed forces of the U.S
• Age
• Sexual orientation
• Genetic information
• Status as a person who is a recipient of federal, state, or local public assistance or who is a tenant receiving federal, state or local housing subsidies including rental supplements.

Advertising

The law also covers advertising, including making discriminatory statements. Ads which express a preference for, or exclusion of, a particular group of people are illegal. In addition, there is a duty to provide reasonable accommodations to a person with a disability when it is necessary to ensure an equal housing opportunity.

Discrimination Cases

If you think you have been discriminated against, you may contact the Central Alabama Fair Housing Center at 334-263-4663.