What discrimination is prohibited under the Fair Housing Act?

The Fair Housing Act is a law that makes it illegal to discriminate in housing in Massachusetts. The Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, disability, familial status, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity, and age. It is illegal to discriminate in the sale or rental of a property, advertising of properties, in the provision of financing, or in the provision of services related to real estate. This means that a landlord cannot deny you housing because of any of the protected characteristics listed above, and cannot set different terms or conditions for tenants based on those characteristics either. It is also illegal to discriminate against tenants or prospective tenants in the terms, conditions, or privileges of renting a property, or in the provision of services or facilities related to a property. Discrimination could include denying or limiting access to a service or facility, such as a swimming pool or playground, because of a tenant’s protected characteristics. It is important to note that the Act prohibits not only intentional discrimination, but also practices that may have the effect of discriminating against a tenant or prospective tenant. This includes practices that have a discriminatory impact on protected groups, even if not intended to do so. Finally, the Fair Housing Act protects against discrimination in property insurance. This means that insurers cannot set different rates or terms based on a person’s protected characteristics, and must treat prospective insureds the same, regardless of their background.

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What discrimination is prohibited under the Fair Housing Act?

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