Housing Discrimination

Housing discrimination occurs when people are treated unfairly in renting, buying, or financing homes based on protected characteristics. The Fair Housing Act of 1968 prohibits this unfair treatment and ensures equal access to housing for all.[1][6][8]

Protected Characteristics

Federal law protects against discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. This covers families with children and people with disabilities, including requirements for accessible new multifamily housing.[1][6][8]

Common Discriminatory Practices

Examples include refusing to rent or sell, setting different terms or prices, steering to specific neighborhoods, denying loans or insurance, or evicting based on protected traits. It also covers failing to allow reasonable accommodations or modifications for disabilities.[1][2][3][4]

Key Rights and Coverage

The law applies to sales, rentals, mortgages, and insurance across all housing stages. Landlords must permit reasonable changes for disabilities, and no one can face different conditions due to race, family status, or other protected factors.[1][6]