While concerning, those numbers aren’t all that surprising. But what is surprising is that retaliation complaints more than doubled from the previous year to the highest recorded level.
Not all fair housing-related decisions are straightforward. Even when staff members make the correct decision, prospects or residents may contest it by filing a discrimination claim.
Answer: This is a typical scenario. You are entitled to ask for verification, and you should unless the need is already apparent. MHCO has forms for the tenant application and landlord agreement (if approved). You should use them!
What Did FHEO-2020-01 Do?
Federal and State Fair Housing Issues. The federal Fair Housing Act, prohibits discrimination based on:
Even if well meaning, the leasing agent could be accused of discrimination because she directed or “steered” the couple away from a particular apartment because of their sexual orientation.
Once that happens, it becomes impossible to predict the outcome, since each case turns on the specific facts and circumstances and the credibility of the parties and witnesses involved.
Be prepared to produce your written policy detailing your community’s standard of conduct and documentation that the resident knew about it.
Under the FHA, it’s unlawful to “coerce, intimidate, threaten, or interfere with” anyone who has exercised her rights under fair housing law—as well as anyone who has helped or encouraged someone to do so.
Just make sure that the rules don’t unfairly target families with children—or anyone else protected under fair housing law. You may have legitimate concerns about outdoor play activities that could disturb neighbors or damage your property, but avoid rules that specifically target children’s behavior.