What to Do in the Face of Housing Discrimination in the United States

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In recent years, the issue of increasing housing discrimination has become a growing concern for renters, homebuyers, and homeowners across the United States. Despite federal laws designed to protect individuals from unfair treatment based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability, discrimination remains pervasive. Understanding the nature of housing discrimination and knowing how to respond effectively are crucial steps in combating this persistent problem.

The Current State of Housing Discrimination

Housing discrimination involves denying or limiting housing opportunities based on protected characteristics. According to the National Fair Housing Alliance, there were over 33,000 complaints filed in 2022, highlighting a troubling trend of increasing housing discrimination. The majority of these complaints involved rental properties, but issues also persist in home sales, lending, and insurance.

Discrimination can take many forms, including refusal to rent or sell, discriminatory terms or conditions, and refusal to make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. For example, landlords may deny housing to tenants with service animals or fail to provide necessary modifications for accessibility.

Recognizing Housing Discrimination

Recognizing housing discrimination can be challenging, as it often manifests subtly. Common signs include being told that a property is unavailable when it is still listed, being subjected to different terms or conditions than other applicants, and experiencing delays or denial of services based on protected characteristics. It is essential to document all interactions and gather evidence if you suspect discrimination.

Disability Discrimination: A Common Complaint

The majority of housing discrimination complaints from the 2023 Fair Housing Trends Report by the National Fair Housing Alliance were based on disability. Housing discrimination can take many forms, such as real estate agents showing buyers homes only in specific neighborhoods, agents lying about home availability, or lenders offering higher interest rates or lower home appraisals based on race, class, gender, or disability status.

Discrimination might also surface after a homebuyer has settled into a home, as was the case with veteran William Adam in Hermitage, TN, who has an amputated leg and uses a wheelchair. When his homeowners association demanded he remove the wheelchair ramp in front of his home because it failed to meet aesthetic guidelines, he filed a lawsuit through the Tennessee Fair Housing Council.

What to Do If You Face Housing Discrimination

If you believe you are a victim of housing discrimination, there are several steps you can take:

Document Everything: Keep records of all communications, including emails, texts, and voicemails. Take notes of conversations and retain copies of any relevant documents.
File a Complaint: You can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or a local fair housing agency. HUD investigates complaints and can take legal action if necessary. Complaints must typically be filed within one year of the alleged discrimination.
Seek Legal Assistance: Consult with an attorney who specializes in fair housing laws. Legal professionals can provide guidance on your rights and help you navigate the complaint process.
Contact Advocacy Organizations: Reach out to organizations like the National Fair Housing Alliance or local fair housing groups. These organizations offer resources, support, and can help advocate on your behalf.

Legal Protections Against Housing Discrimination

The Fair Housing Act of 1968 provides the primary legal framework for protecting individuals from housing discrimination. This act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. Recent amendments and executive orders have expanded protections to include sexual orientation and gender identity. Despite these legal safeguards, enforcement and awareness remain critical issues.

Black and Hispanic communities face discrimination

30% Black and Hispanic Face Discrimination When Buying and Renting a House

Discrimination against Black and Hispanic communities in housing and homeownership remains a significant issue in the United States.

Increasing housing discrimination is a significant issue that affects countless individuals and families. By understanding your rights, recognizing signs of discrimination, and taking appropriate action, you can help combat this pervasive problem. Remember, everyone deserves equal access to housing opportunities, and there are resources and legal protections in place to support you in the face of discrimination.