How do I know if I'm a victim of housing discrimination?

Housing discrimination occurs when someone treats you unfairly because of your protected class in the rental, sale, insuring, or financing of a home. Protected classes include race, color, national origin, sex, religion, familial status, disability, military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, source of income, or immigration status. Discrimination could include denying housing, limiting housing options, or applying different criteria, terms, or conditions based on your protected class.

Who qualifies for assistance?

The Fair Housing Center serves all residents of Lucas and Wood counties. Our services are free and confidential, and there are no income requirements. Fair housing laws apply to all individuals; everyone is a member of a protected class.

Can The Fairing Housing Center help with finding housing, legal services, financial assistance for rent or home repairs, foreclosure prevention, or emergency housing?

The Fair Housing Center does not provide these services, but please visit our resources page to locate other community services that may be able to help.

If I’m having a problem with my landlord, does that qualify as a fair housing issue?

It depends. If you have a general dispute with your landlord (i.e., rent collection, neglect of maintenance), this is typically a landlord/tenant dispute and you need to seek help from an appropriate agency. Please visit our resources page. If you suspect you are being treated differently than other tenants because of your protected class, this could be housing discrimination. Please contact us for assistance.

Are there protections for persons with disabilities?

Fair housing laws require housing providers to allow reasonable structural or policy changes that enable a person with a disability to fully use and enjoy their home. This may include ramps, grab bars, handicap parking, or assistance animals. Please visit our disability rights page for more information.

Who has to comply with fair housing laws?

The entire housing industry has to follow fair housing laws, including rental, sales, lending, appraisal, and homeowners insurance.

If I’m a housing professional, how do I make sure I’m following the law?

The Fair Housing Center provides education and outreach services to help the housing industry understand and comply with the law. Please visit our housing professionals page to review tips and best practices, download or request brochures, or request a training for your staff.

Thoughtful woman at home

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Send us your question.

Fair housing to me was always for people of a certain income level…or people in certain parts of town. It’s a horrible misconception, but I think many people have it.

R.E.

Former Client