Defending Your Right to Call It Home

With the advocate’s help, HUD investigated and found that the landlord violated the Fair Housing Act. The complainant received a settlement that helped cover temporary housing costs, and the landlord was required to change his rental policies and undergo fair housing training.

The family eventually moved into a new, welcoming neighborhood—and the mother now volunteers helping other families learn their rights.

We can help with...

• Filing a formal complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

• Work with housing testers—individuals who pose as renters—to confirm the landlord was still showing the unit to other people.

Remedies...

• Housing access (e.g., being offered the rental or sale that was denied)

• Money damages for emotional distress or financial loss

• Penalties or fines against the violator

• Changes in policies by the housing provider

Racial Discrimination in Housing

Situation: A Black couple applies to rent an apartment in a nice neighborhood. Over the phone, the landlord sounds positive and says the unit is available. But when the couple shows up in person for a tour, the landlord suddenly says,
“Actually, I just rented it this morning.”

The couple is suspicious. So, a few days later, a white friend calls the same landlord, pretending to be interested in the same apartment. The landlord says:
“Yes, it’s still available! Come by and take a look.”

This is likely a violation of the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits landlords from refusing to rent to someone based on race or color. The landlord treated the couple unfairly because of their race, even though they were qualified to rent.

We can help with...

• Filing a complaint with HUD or a state housing agency

• Investigate the situation (possibly through matched testing)

• Pursue legal action