Question:
I am a pregnant woman that has been seeking a new apartment for weeks now, but both real estate agents and landlords have clearly told me they are denying me the apartment because I am pregnant. Is this legal?
Answer:
No. A Federal law regulated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development states that is it illegal for you to be denied housing based on your family status.
Here are five facts that HUD wants you to know:
1. You cannot be denied housing because you have or are expecting a child.
2. You cannot be evicted from housing because you have a child.
3. Families cannot be restricted to one area of a building or complex.
4. Rules cannot unfairly target children.
5. Advertisements cannot state that children are not wanted.
Housing discrimination based on your race, color, national origin, religion, sex, family status, or disability is illegal by federal law. If you have been trying to buy or rent a home or apartment and you believe your rights have been violated, you can file a fair housing complaint.
File a complaint:
•The Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity
Department of Housing and Urban Development call 800.669.9777, 800.927.9275 (TTY) or visit www.hud.gov/fairhousing.
•The New York City Commission of Human Rights (718) 722-3130 or (212) 306-7450 or visit www.nyc.gov/html/cchr.
SOURCE: www.hud.gov/fairhousing
If you want answers to your housing questions please email them to to@trishaocona.com
This information is for educational purposes only. Always seek a trusted attorney and/or U.S. HUD approved counselor for all major housing transactions. Call (800) 569-4287 or visit ww.hud.gov to locate one.
