The "WARNING SIGNS " of Housing Discrimination
Housing discrimination is oftentimes very subtle - sometimes
you do not have proof other than a feeling that something is
not quite right. Your situation may involve illegal discrimination
if:
- You are told the apartment (or house) has been rented, but
the "For Rent" sign is still being shown or the advertisement
is still in the paper
- The owner tells you that your children have to have separate
bedrooms
- The manager takes your application and promises to call
you, but your phone never rings or no messages appear on your
answering machine
- You have an assist animal, and you are told "no pets allowed"
- The landlord explains why another place would be better
for you
- A real estate agent steers you away from the neighborhood
that you requested
- Your condio or housing association won't let you make physical
modifications necessary because of a disability to your unit
- You are told all first floor units are rented, and children
aren't allowed on the upper floors
These are just a few of the ways that illegal housing discrimination
may be practiced. If you feel that you have been discouraged
from obtaining housing or housing related services, your fair
housing rights may have been violated.
if you think that you have encountered illegal housing discrimination?
- KEEP A WRITTEN RECORD of all attempted and actual
contacts and conversations with the manager, landlord, owner,
real estate agent, loan officer, mortgage officer, insurance
agent, and all mothers with whom you speak
- KEEP ALL DOCUMENTS, leases, applications, receipts,
letters of denial, etc. It is always recommended that you
make copies of all of these items
- CALL the RILS Housing
Law Center and Eviction Defense Clinic at (401) 274-2652.
Our services are free and open to everyone.
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