What is Fair Housing Law?

Fair Housing Law is an important set of protections for everyone in Maryland. It is a federal, state, and local law that prohibits discrimination in housing related activities based on certain protected classes. These classes include race, color, national origin, gender, religion, familial status, and disability. Fair Housing Law is meant to guarantee that everyone has an equal right to access housing. If an individual experiences discrimination in housing related activities, they can file a complaint with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and/or a state or local Fair Housing Agency. Fair Housing Law also prohibits landlords from refusing to rent or sell a house to someone based on their protected class status. Fair Housing Law also provides protections for someone who is already living in a home. This means that a landlord cannot harass or evict someone based on their protected class status. If a landlord engages in discriminatory practices, such as refusing to rent to someone based on their race or gender, they can be held liable for damages. Additionally, landlords cannot include discriminatory terms or conditions in a lease. Finally, Fair Housing Law prohibits discriminatory advertising. This means that landlords cannot post ads that exclude potential renters or buyers based on their race, gender, or other protected class status. In short, Fair Housing Law is a set of laws that protect everyone living and looking for housing in Maryland by prohibiting discrimination in housing related activities. It guarantees that everyone has an equal right to access housing and provides other important protections.

Related FAQs

Are there any legal remedies available to those who have been discriminated against in violation of Fair Housing Law?
What are the consequences of failing to comply with Fair Housing Law?
Do rental applicants have to meet certain criteria under Fair Housing Law?
Are there any special requirements for advertising rental properties under Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to require a co-signer for rental units in compliance with Fair Housing Law?
What happens if a landlord or seller violates Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to charge higher prices to certain tenants in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Is the landlord held liable for any damages if found in violation of Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to discriminate against families with children in violation of Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to set different rental rates for different tenants in violation of Fair Housing Law?

Related Blog Posts

What is Fair Housing Law and How Does it Impact Home Ownership? - July 31, 2023
Understanding Your Rights Under Fair Housing Laws - August 7, 2023
Learn How to Protect Yourself from Housing Discrimination Under Fair Housing Law - August 14, 2023
What is Covered Under the Fair Housing Act and How Does it Affect Landlords? - August 21, 2023
Navigating the Complicated Rules and Regulations of Fair Housing Law - August 28, 2023