Housing discrimination refers to systematic patterns of discrimination which affect an individual’s ability to purchase or rent housing. This disparate treatment of an individual on the housing market is often based on ethnicity, national origin, race, or gender. In some cases housing discrimination has even been used as a means of controlling who should not be buying or renting homes.
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) were created to help ensure the equal access to housing for individuals from different cultures and backgrounds. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, commonly known as EEOC, monitors employment practices, wage and hour claims, and other employment-related disputes. The Department of Housing and Urban Development, also commonly called HUD, is a Federal agency that was established in 1968. Its primary function is to promote and protect the Nation’s housing programs and policies.
Although the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission cannot intervene in private discrimination cases, the agency is responsible for providing information to state and local government programs designed to prevent housing discrimination. HUD works closely with the various communities to identify the patterns and types of discrimination occurring. It also provides training to local agencies and helps to train private and nonprofit organizations on how to investigate complaints of housing discrimination.
There are two basic provisions under federal law which protect an individual against discrimination. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based upon race, color, religion, sex, national origin, and disability. Title VII protects against discrimination based upon race, color, religion, sex, age, and sexual orientation.
Housing discrimination occurs in many different ways. For example, an individual could be denied access to housing due to their race or color. Also, a disabled individual may be denied access to affordable housing by landlords or other realtors who do not provide necessary handicap accessibility features in their buildings. Individuals who are not members of the protected classes may face discrimination based on other characteristics. An individual who belongs to a protected group, such as a particular religion or country, may be denied services because of this group characteristic.
When you are involved in a case of housing discrimination, it is important to contact a lawyer experienced in housing law so you can get the justice you deserve. If you believe you are a victim of housing discrimination, your best chance for finding relief is to contact an attorney who specializes in housing discrimination cases. To make sure that your case is handled with respect and sensitivity, you should hire an attorney who specializes in the housing field. and has many years of experience dealing with similar cases. The legal team you choose will be able to give you the representation you need to get through your case with dignity and aplomb.