The Fair Housing Act was passed 1968, but it has evolved over time in response to societal changes. The Fair Housing Act protects people from discrimination when they are renting, buying, or securing financing for any housing. The prohibitions specifically cover discrimination because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability and the presence of children.

Resources:

NAR's Field Guide to Fair Housing

REALTOR® Fair Housing Declaration

 HUD's Fair Housing Site

MA Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD)

MA REALTOR® Fair Housing Face Sheet

File a Fair Housing Complaint (HUD)

Published on Jan 3, 2017
NAR Senior Counsel Lesley Walker discusses new guidance from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development on how to avoid violating the federal Fair Housing Act when considering a tenant’s criminal history or an individual’s limited English proficiency.