Every single human being deserves to have a place to call home where they feel safe. They also deserve the right to take up residence wherever they would like to. Equal Opportunity Housing works to make sure no one experiences discrimination in the housing market.
Continue reading to learn more about Equal Opportunity Housing and what that means for Texas landlords.
What Is the Equal Opportunity Housing Act?
The Equal Opportunity Housing Act ensures that anyone filling out a housing application cannot get denied based on who they are. This also includes individuals who need public assistance to supplement their income as a means to be able to afford to pay their rent.
There are several other laws in place to prevent housing discrimination, including:
- The Civil Rights Act of 1866
- The Americans With Disabilities Act
- The Fair Housing Act
The Civil Rights Act ensures that all applicants have a fair shot at finding an apartment regardless of their race. The Americans With Disabilities Act prevents landlords from being ableist. This means that landlords can't choose their tenants based on their abilities or skin color rather than seeing them as a whole person.
These laws prevent landlords from choosing tenants based on their status. This is possible by setting forth rules that prohibit discrimination and enforce fairness.
Who Enforces Fair Housing Opportunities?
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) enforces Equal Opportunity and Fair Housing. If you are accused of discriminating against anyone based on their protected class status, you will hear from HUD.
It's essential for you, as a landlord, to make sure that you don't single any applicants out. You can't make the decision based on their race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, or family status as per the Fair Housing Act.
These fair housing opportunities even extend to buying and selling homes. A buyer, with the means to make a purchase, has the right to live wherever they might want to regardless of their position in a protected class. Home sellers must also avoid discriminating against potential buyers and give everyone the chance to buy a home they will enjoy.
Are There Any Exceptions to This Ruling?
There are certain exceptions to the Equal Opportunity Act in specific regard to the type of landlord you might be. This includes landlords who own 3 or fewer single-family units or an apartment building with less than 5 units. It also includes landlords who don't use brokers or realtors to fill vacancies. It also includes landlords who live in the home where they are renting rooms.
Your Property Manager Can Help You
For a small fee, a property manager can help to ensure that you are complying with the laws regarding Equal Opportunity Housing. They can also help you market your vacant rental properties. They can screen potential tenants, and manage your other landlord responsibilities.
Contact Home River Group Houston today for more information on property management and providing fair housing to your potential tenants. We'd be happy to answer any questions that you might have on the subject.
