What is Fair Housing?
The Fair Housing Act provides equal opportunities to all who buy, sell, rent, finance, or insure housing. It protects every individual's basic right to choose where to live and ensures fair treatment in obtaining housing.
The law covers most housing, including apartments, homes, and lots, whether rented or sold. It must be followed by real estate organizations, mortgage lenders, banks, apartment managers, builders, and homeowners selling their own homes.
Who is Protected?
The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing based on:
- Race
- Color
- National Origin
- Religion
- Disability
- Sex
- Familial Status (having children under 18)
In addition, HUD rules and KHC policies prohibit discrimination based on actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, or marital status.
Examples of Housing Discrimination
Select a topic below to see what actions are considered illegal.
In the Sale or Rental of Housing
- Refuse to rent or sell to someone based on a protected status.
- Provide different services or facilities based on a protected status.
- Falsely deny housing is available based on a protected status.
- Impose different rules on different people based on a protected status.
In Financial Transactions
- Refuse to accept a mortgage loan application based on a protected status.
- Refuse to provide loan information based on a protected status.
- Provide different terms or conditions on a loan based on a protected status.
- Unfairly or inaccurately appraise a property based on a protected status.
In Any Aspect of Housing
- Threaten, intimidate, or interfere with any person's fair housing rights.
- Advertise any availability of housing that states a preference or limitation based on a person's protected status.
How to Report Suspected Discrimination
If you believe you have been a victim of housing discrimination, you should file a complaint. The Kentucky Fair Housing Council is a state-wide advocate for victims of housing discrimination and can assist you in filing a complaint.
You can also file complaints with these state and federal agencies:
KHC's Commitment and Partner Requirements
All partners who receive financial assistance from KHC are required to uphold fair housing activities. KHC requires partners to:
- Develop a fair housing plan and affirmative marketing program.
- Promote the use of minority- and female-owned businesses.
- Promote the design and construction of housing that ensures maximum use by all persons.
- Promote fair housing by displaying posters and brochures.
KHC also works to address systemic housing issues, which are detailed in our Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing.