{"id":369205,"date":"2016-04-04T10:47:16","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:47:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/fair-housing-laws-complaints-and-lawsuits.html"},"modified":"2023-12-11T19:20:07","modified_gmt":"2023-12-12T00:20:07","slug":"fair-housing-laws-complaints-and-lawsuits","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/fair-housing-laws-complaints-and-lawsuits.html","title":{"rendered":"Fair Housing Laws, Complaints, and Lawsuits"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Fair Housing Laws, Complaints, and Lawsuits<\/h1>\n
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\n By Melissa McCall, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Katrina Wilson, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, you should know the basics of federal fair housing laws<\/a> and state anti-discrimination statutes<\/a>. Prospective tenants should understand their rights as they seek rental housing. Landlords should understand fair housing laws to avoid potential lawsuits.<\/p>\r\n

This FindLaw article explores housing discrimination<\/a> and fair housing laws.<\/p>\r\n

Housing Discrimination<\/h2>\r\n

Landlords who refuse to rent based on race or another protected characteristic are likely in violation of housing discrimination laws. These laws ensure all Americans have equal opportunities in housing. This includes affordable housing. As the cost of living increases, more individuals and families struggle to find affordable housing.<\/p>\r\n

Affordable housing includes local programs designed to increase the number of homeowners. It also covers apartment complexes owned by big realty groups or management companies. Often, these providers must set aside a percentage of apartments in exchange for a tax subsidy.<\/p>\r\n

Fair Housing Laws<\/h2>\r\n

Most fair housing laws ensure the fair housing rights of protected class members. Protected classes include:<\/p>\r\n