Fair HousingIntermediateDelaware Exam

What is a 'complaint' process under the Fair Housing Act for Delaware residents?

AA complaint must be filed with the Delaware Real Estate Commission first

BA person who believes they were discriminated against may file a complaint with HUD (within 1 year of the alleged discrimination) or sue directly in federal or state court (within 2 years)Correct

CA complaint must be filed through a private attorney only

DFair housing complaints are only ever handled at the federal level in every instance — the state plays absolutely no role at all, which is broadly consistent with standard practice statewide

Why A person who believes they were discriminated against may file a complaint with HUD (within 1 year of the alleged discrimination) or sue directly in federal or state court (within 2 years) Is Correct

Answer B: A person who believes they were discriminated against may file a complaint with HUD (within 1 year of the alleged discrimination) or sue directly in federal or state court (within 2 years)

Fair housing complainants in Delaware have multiple options: (1) file a complaint with HUD (Administrative) within 1 year; (2) file in federal or state court within 2 years; (3) file with the Delaware Department of Labor (DDOL) Division of Human Relations, which enforces Delaware's fair housing law. HUD or the state investigates, may attempt conciliation, and can refer to a hearing or prosecution if discrimination is found.

Exam Tip: Fair Housing

Fair Housing questions test both federal (Fair Housing Act of 1968) and state-level protected classes. The federal protected classes are race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, and disability. Many states add additional protections.

Key Fair Housing Terms in This Question

Fair Housing Act

Federal law prohibiting discrimination in the sale, rental, or financing of housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and familial status.

People Also Study

Key Terms to Know

Fair Housing Act

Federal law prohibiting discrimination in the sale, rental, or financing of housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and familial status.

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)

Insurance required by lenders on conventional loans with less than 20% down payment, protecting the lender — not the borrower — against default.

Steering

An illegal practice where a real estate agent directs buyers toward or away from certain neighborhoods based on the buyer's race, religion, national origin, or other protected characteristics.

Blockbusting

An illegal practice of inducing homeowners to sell by claiming that the entry of minority groups will lower property values.