How can landlords and property owners ensure they are in compliance with Fair Housing Law?
To ensure compliance with Fair Housing Law in Maryland, landlords and property owners should follow these general steps: 1. Familiarize themselves with the law. In Maryland, the Office of Human Relations is the agency responsible for enforcing fair housing law. This agency provides publications outlining the fair housing law and their enforcement efforts. It may be beneficial for landlords and property owners to consult with an experienced legal professional in order to best understand their legal rights and obligations. 2. Educate themselves on prohibited discriminatory practices. Landlords and property owners should ensure they are aware of the various discriminatory practices prohibited by the law. These practices include refusing to rent or sell to individuals based on their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, familial status, or disability. 3. Establish nondiscriminatory policies and procedures. Landlords and property owners should document and consistently follow nondiscriminatory policies and procedures in leasing, sales, advertising, and other activities related to fair housing. 4. Regularly review and update policies and procedures. Landlords and property owners should review and update their policies and procedures regularly to ensure compliance with changes in the law. 5. Create a written record of all transactions. Landlords and property owners should keep meticulous written records of all transactions, including rental applications and leases. This will help protect against potential claims of discriminatory practices. By following these steps, landlords and property owners in Maryland can ensure they are in compliance with Fair Housing Law. Doing so will help protect them from potential claims of discriminatory practices.
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