Fair Housing

What is Fair Housing?

On April 11, 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Federal Fair Housing Act into law. This groundbreaking legislation was established one week after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The passage of the Fair Housing Act made it illegal to refuse to sell, rent, or otherwise make unavailable most housing transactions to any person based on the following protected classes: race, color, disability, national origin, familial status, religion, and sex.

The purpose of the Fair Housing Act is to eliminate discrimination and ensure that all people are treated fairly, equally, and consistently in the sale, rental, and financing of housing. All individuals are to be provided equal housing opportunities, which means that they have the right to live in the home of their choice, as long as they meet reasonable and legal qualifications.

Key Protections Under the Fair Housing Act

Renting and Buying: Landlords and sellers cannot refuse to rent or sell a home based on a person’s protected status.
Financing and Loans: Banks and lenders cannot discriminate in mortgage lending.
Advertising: Housing ads cannot indicate a preference or restriction based on protected categories.
Reasonable Accommodations: People with disabilities must be given reasonable accommodations (e.g., service animals in no-pet housing).

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) enforces Fair Housing.

Types of Discrimination

Direct Discrimination: Treating someone unfairly because they are a member of a protected characteristic (i.e., refusing to rent an apartment to a family with children).
Indirect Discrimination: Policies or practices that seem neutral but disproportionately disadvantage certain groups (i.e., hosting an event requiring formal attire that may exclude low-income residents).
Harassment: Unwanted behavior that creates a hostile or offensive environment (i.e., making derogatory comments about a resident’s nationality).
Retaliation: Punishing someone for asserting their rights or filing a complaint (i.e., excluding a resident from events after they report discrimination).

Federal Protected Classes

Race: Protection from discrimination based on racial identity.
Color: Protection from discrimination due to skin color or complexion.
Religion: Ensures equal housing opportunities regardless of religious beliefs or practices.
Sex: Protects against discrimination based on gender, including gender identity and sexual orientation.
National Origin: Prohibits discrimination based on birthplace, ancestry, or cultural background.
Disability: Protects individuals with physical or mental impairments and ensures reasonable accommodations.
Familial Status: Protects families with children under 18, pregnant individuals, and those securing custody of a minor.

Some state and local laws may expand protections to include additional categories, such as age, marital status, source of income, or military status.

What Does this Mean for Apartment Life?

While we are not a housing provider, we are committed to supporting the Fair Housing guidelines our clients are held to so that all residents on the communities we serve are treated fairly, equally, and consistently. All of our employees are trained in Fair Housing guidelines. Very plainly, we do not discriminate against anyone while serving in Apartment Life, period. Our events and program elements are available to all residents without exclusion or discrimination. It is our joy to serve every community member.