Understanding Fair Housing Laws

About

Fair Housing Laws, both State and Federal, protect individuals from being discriminated against in the sale, rental or advertising of residential dwellings, in the provision of brokerage and lending services, or in the availability of any residential real estate transaction based several identified protected characteristics.

Protected characteristics identified by State or Federal Law include:

Some common examples of housing discrimination include refusing to rent/sell a property, setting different terms or conditions, making housing unavailable or providing different housing services or facilities based on the applicants’ characteristics.

Resources

For more information on access to fair housing please visit the following resources.    

Marin Housing Authority Marin Housing Authority aims to assist low-income households in Marin in finding affordable, safe housing. MHA operates a Housing Voucher Program, provides public housing and aims to connect residents with below market rate housing options.

Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California FHANC is an organization providing support for homeowners and renters of Marin, Solano, Sonoma, and other surrounding counties. The organization aids with investigating and filing housing discrimination complaints with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). FHANC is also HUD certified to offer pre-purchase counseling and education programs, as well as foreclosure prevention counseling and workshops. 

Legal Aid of Marin provides legal representation and services for eviction protection and tenant rights. Services are available to low-income families and individuals. Contact them at 415-492-0230.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) website.

State of California Civil Rights Department website.