Fair Housing Laws You Should Know

Fair housing laws have come a long way since 1968, when the Fair Housing Act was passed, evolving to provide greater protection and equality for everyone. Here’s a look at some of the key acts and amendments that have shaped fair housing laws and expanded protections over the years.

1. The Housing and Community Development Act of 1974

What It Did: This act made an important addition to the Fair Housing Act by including sex as a protected class. Before this change, women faced significant challenges such as sexual harassment and stereotyping by landlords and sellers, which made finding housing more difficult.

Why It Matters: By adding sex to the list of protected classes, this act helped ensure that women would have equal access to housing opportunities, marking a significant step forward in gender equality.

2. Equal Credit Opportunity Act of 1974 (ECOA)

What It Did: ECOA requires lenders to provide equal access to credit for everyone. It prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, and whether someone receives public assistance. Additionally, if a credit application is denied, the lender must explain the reasons and respond to all applications within 30 days.

Why It Matters: This act ensures that everyone has a fair chance to obtain credit and prevents discriminatory practices, making financial opportunities more accessible and equitable.

3. The Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988

What It Did: This amendment expanded the Fair Housing Act to include familial status and disability (both physical and mental) as protected classes. It requires landlords and property owners to make reasonable accommodations to their policies to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to housing.

Why It Matters: By adding these protections, the act helped to prevent discrimination against families with children and individuals with disabilities, ensuring that everyone has the right to a fair and accessible living environment.

4. The Housing for Older Persons Act of 1995 (HOPA)

What It Did: HOPA allows certain housing communities that are specifically designed for older persons to be exempt from familial status discrimination. To qualify, these communities must have at least one person aged 55 or older living in 80% of the units and must show that the housing is intended for older adults.

Why It Matters: This act provides communities designed for older adults with the flexibility to exclude families with children while still ensuring that these communities are accessible and appropriately targeted towards their intended age group.

Why These Laws Are Important

These laws and acts collectively work to protect individuals from discrimination in housing and credit, ensuring equal opportunities for everyone. They address a range of issues from gender and disability to age and credit access, reflecting the ongoing commitment to fair treatment in housing.

Understanding these laws helps you know your rights and ensures that everyone has the opportunity to find and secure housing without facing discrimination. Whether you’re a homeowner, a renter, or simply interested in fair housing, these protections are vital in creating a more equitable society.