Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to live. But sometimes, people are discriminated against in housing because of their race, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, or disability. This is illegal under the Fair Housing Act.
The Fair Housing Act is a federal law that prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of housing. It was passed in 1968 to help ensure that everyone has equal access to housing, regardless of their personal characteristics.
The Fair Housing Act covers a wide range of housing-related activities, including:
- Renting or buying a home
- Applying for a mortgage
- Getting a home improvement loan
- Applying for housing assistance
- Being evicted from your home
- Receiving housing-related services, such as repairs or maintenance
If you believe you have been discriminated against in housing, you have rights. You can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD will investigate your complaint and, if it finds that you have been discriminated against, it can take action to stop the discrimination and get you the relief you deserve.
You can also file a lawsuit in federal court against the person or company that discriminated against you. If you win your lawsuit, you can be awarded damages, including money for your emotional distress, lost wages, and other expenses.
If you think you have been discriminated against in housing, don't wait to file a complaint. The Fair Housing Act is there to protect you.
Here are some tips for filing a complaint with HUD:
- File your complaint as soon as possible after you believe you have been discriminated against.
- Gather as much evidence as you can, such as copies of letters, emails, or other documents that support your claim.
- Be clear and concise in your complaint.
- If you need help filing a complaint, you can contact HUD or a fair housing organization in your area.
Here are some resources that can help you:
- The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): https://www.hud.gov/
- The National Fair Housing Alliance (NFFA): https://www.nationalfairhousing.org/
- The Fair Housing Justice Center (FHJC): https://www.fhjc.org/
You are not alone. If you have been discriminated against in housing, there are people who can help you.
