A landlord needs to understand many things. You need to maintain the properties for rent. You should also learn about the rights of your tenants to avoid lawsuits. One of the major laws you have to learn and understand is the Fair Housing Act. This is a very important law that protects everyone from different forms of discrimination. This gives everyone the equal opportunity to purchase or rent a property he or she desires.
The renters should be familiar with the Fair Housing Act so that they will know their rights and have an idea of the actions to take when those rights are violated. The law states that it is illegal to deny anyone rent or purchase of a house because of his race, color, gender, religion and the like. This does not only end in renting or purchasing. This extends to financing, advertising and other transactions related to housing.
The HUD has been tasked to carry out this law ever since it was adopted in 1968. It has been amended a few times to address other discriminating practices in the housing terms. It is essential that this law is followed or the homeowners and other concerned individuals will be in trouble. The law wants to make sure that most if not all properties can cater to all sorts of needs. In fact, property owners are asked to make exemptions in their rules. For instance, pets are not allowed in the building. However, an exemption should be made for blind occupants who need a guide dog.
There are many things changed because of this law. Now, it is important for property owners provide a suitable space for possible dwellers. If there are renters with physical disabilities, they should be allowed to make changes in their living space to make it suitable for them. The property owners are also responsible to provide a comfortable living space for them such as a wider door so that a wheel chair could fit. The bathroom should be spacious as well for those who are using wheelchairs too. The common spaces in the building should also cater to the needs of those who are physically challenged. However, this is not applicable for all types of property. Those with properties for rent that are less than four units are often not included. The same is true for exclusive properties and single family homes that are rented without the help of a broker.
The law also covers advertising. This is why it is not acceptable to specify the race, gender, religion, and other similar features. Although it is all right to specify characteristics to ensure that you get good tenants, you should be careful not to include items that will alienate others.
This also covers blockbusting and steering. One should not encourage a home owner to sell his property because someone from a minority group will move in the neighborhood. No agent should also direct a buyer from a minority group to purchase a property in a neighborhood where most people with similar race and ethnicity lives.
The Fair Housing Act is important. Renters and property owners should know it to carry out its purpose.
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