The U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is taking a firm stance against discrimination in Appleton, Wisconsin.
Two local landlords, Tammy and Ramiro Estrada, face serious allegations of denying a tenant’s rightful accommodation for assistance animals, as mandated under the Fair Housing Act.
Incident Breakdown
The Estradas, who manage a duplex in Appleton, purportedly rejected the request of a tenant to keep her assistance animals. These animals are not just pets but are essential for her daily function and medical needs.
HUD's charges against the landlords include imposing unfair breed restrictions and making threats of eviction, actions that significantly hindered the tenant's quality of life and enjoyment of her home.
Diane M. Shelley, HUD’s Principal Assistant Deputy Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity, stated, “The creation of artificial and unreasonable obstacles to granting a reasonable accommodation, because an assistance animal is involved, is against the law.”
She further noted, "HUD is committed to ensuring that individuals with a disability can access housing.”
Echoing this commitment, HUD’s General Counsel, Damon Smith, asserted, “Individuals with disabilities are entitled to the use of assistance animals as reasonable accommodations to afford them full access to their home.”
The denial led to severe consequences for the tenant, who was forced to move to a more expensive residence after her lease was not renewed due to her accommodation request.
Related Read: Exploring Affordable Housing Solutions for Individuals with Disabilities
Legal Steps and Expected Remedies
The accusation will proceed to an administrative hearing before a U.S. Administrative Law Judge unless the parties decide to move the case to federal district court.
Should the judge find the Estradas liable for discrimination, they could be ordered to provide compensatory damages to the aggrieved tenant for the hardships endured.
Additionally, the court may also impose civil penalties and issue injunctive relief to prevent further discriminatory practices.
Reporting Discrimination: How You Can Act
If you suspect housing discrimination is being done against you:
- Phone: Contact HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity directly by calling (800) 669-9777 or (800) 927-9275 for TTY.
- Online: Fill out a complaint form via HUD’s fair housing complaint portal at www.hud.gov/fairhousing.
- Mail: Send a detailed account of your experience to the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 Seventh St. SW, Washington, DC 20410.
It is essential to provide a full explanation of the incident, including dates, names of individuals involved, and why you believe discrimination occurred.
Support for Non-English Speakers and Hearing Impaired
HUD acknowledges the need for accessibility in all languages and formats. For assistance in languages other than English or for those who are deaf or hard of hearing, reach out through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.
Understanding and combating housing discrimination is crucial for fostering inclusive and equitable housing environments. HUD continues to watch over and act against such disparities to support those affected by discrimination in housing.
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