The Fair Housing Act is a grouping of federal laws that prohibit discrimination in real estate related activities such as real estate purchases or rentals, advertising, mortgage lending, homeowners insurance and property zoning. It’s primary purpose and goal is to protect a buyer or renter from unlawful discrimination.
The Fair Housing Act defines a list of conducts that are prohibited in any phase of housing activities based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status or handicap. It is a very specific law and falls under the authority of The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development or HUD. This office, with its branches and state/local offices is responsible for enforcing compliance of the laws and investigation of possible violations.
Of course, discriminatory behaviors can be obvious. But some are subtle and may be intentional or unintentional. Anyone who is involved in real estate related activity should take the time to review The Fair Housing Act regularly to make sure they are familiar with and understand the laws in order to avoid discriminatory practice.
This blog article is meant simply as a reminder to the reader to review The Fair Housing Act and is in no way meant as legal advise or definition or interpretation of the laws in any form.
For details of The Fair Housing Act visit: ‘Fair Housing-It’s Your Right’ at http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/FHLaws/yourrights.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
