Housing Discrimination
Housing Discrimination
Housing discrimination happens when someone is denied the opportunity to rent, buy, or live in a property based on who they are, rather than whether they qualify. If you've been turned away from a home, charged higher rent, steered to a different neighborhood, or harassed because of your identity, you may be protected under federal or state fair housing laws.
What Is Housing Discrimination?
Housing discrimination is illegal under the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing based on:
- Race
- Color
- National origin
- Religion
- Sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation)
- Familial status (e.g., having children)
- Disability
In Alabama and Georgia, you also have protections under state and local laws. These rules apply to both public and private housing, including landlords, real estate agents, mortgage lenders, and property managers.
Common Examples of Housing Discrimination
Discrimination can be subtle or overt. You might not always hear a slur or get a clear “no,” but the outcome is the same—you're denied equal access to housing. Here are a few examples:
Rental Discrimination
- Refusing to rent to someone because of their race, religion, or family status
- Quoting higher prices or deposits to certain applicants
- Making false claims that a unit is unavailable
Discrimination in Home Sales
- Steering buyers away from certain neighborhoods
- Offering different terms, conditions, or financing based on race or gender
- Refusing to negotiate with someone due to a protected class
Disability-Based Housing Discrimination
- Denying reasonable modifications (like a ramp or grab bars)
- Failing to provide accessible units or parking
- Harassing tenants with disabilities or evicting them because of their medical needs
Harassment and Hostile Living Conditions
- Creating or allowing a hostile environment based on someone's identity
- Ignoring reports of harassment by neighbors or staff
- Retaliating when a tenant complains or files a fair housing claim
What to Do if You’re Facing Housing Discrimination
If you think your housing rights have been violated, don’t wait. Keep copies of any written communication, take notes of phone calls, and save listings or photos that may help prove your case.
You may be able to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or your state housing agency. However, these processes can be complex, and it’s not always easy to know what qualifies as discrimination.
That’s where we come in.
Work With a Housing Discrimination Attorney
in Alabama or Georgia
The Workers’ Firm is committed to making sure that housing providers play by the rules. Whether you’re facing discrimination, our experienced civil rights lawyers will help you take action.
We’ll walk you through your legal options, help you file a complaint, and, if needed, represent you in court. Our goal is to get you the justice and the housing you deserve.
