What does housing discrimination look like?

November 16, 2007

Housing discrimination can take many forms. Some common forms include:

Misrepresenting the availability of housing: A landlord, owner, or real estate agent tells you that the apartment, house, or condominium is not available, when in fact it has not been rented or sold.

Refusals to rent or sell: A landlord or real estate professional refuses to rent or sell to you because you are a member of one of a protected group.

Discrimination in terms and conditions: You are given different terms or rules than others because you are a member of one of a protected group.

Discriminatory Advertising: Any written statement in a newspaper or oral statement that indicates preferences or limitations for certain people. This includes any ad or brochure that is created by the owner of the property.

Use of threats, intimidation or coercion: Someone attempts to prevent you from renting or buying a house in a neighborhood by suggesting that you will not be safe or that neighbors may not want you to move in.

Posted in FAQ