Are landlords responsible for the actions of their employees in regards to Fair Housing Law?

Yes, landlords are responsible for the actions of their employees in regards to Fair Housing Law in Washington. Federal law prohibits discriminatory practices in housing and landlord-tenant relationships, and landlords are responsible for enforcing these laws. The Fair Housing Act of 1968 prohibits refusal to rent or sell a property based on discrimination, such as race, color, religion, national origin, familial status, gender, and disability. The Washington State Human Rights Commission (WSHRC) is the authority responsible for enforcing fair housing laws in the state. Under the WSHRC, landlords must ensure that their employees do not engage in any activity that may be considered discriminatory under the Fair Housing Law. This includes the way employees interact with tenants and potential tenants. For instance, if an employee treats tenants negatively due to their ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation, the landlord is accountable for this action. If an employee violates the Fair Housing Law and the landlord is found to be at fault, the landlord could face legal action. Penalties vary from case to case and depend on the seriousness of the violation. In extreme cases, a landlord could be financially liable for damages and may be required to pay a fine, or even have their business shut down. It is important for landlords to ensure that their employees are aware of the Fair Housing Law and its provisions. The WSHRC provides resources for landlords to help them comply with the law, such as education and training materials. By being aware of the law and educating employees on its provisions, landlords can protect themselves and their businesses from potential legal action.

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Are landlords responsible for the actions of their employees in regards to Fair Housing Law?

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