Fair Housing

A person who believes they have been discriminated against in housing may file a complaint with HUD within one year. If the case is not conciliated, HUD may:

AIssue an administrative law judge decision or refer the case to the Department of Justice✓ Correct

BOnly order mediation between the parties

CClose the case without further action

DFine the respondent without a hearing

Explanation

If a HUD fair housing case is not resolved through conciliation, it may proceed to an administrative law judge (ALJ) hearing, or either party may elect to have the case heard in federal district court. The DOJ may also file suit in egregious cases.

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.

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.

Redlining

An illegal practice where lenders or insurers deny services or charge higher rates in certain neighborhoods based on the racial or ethnic composition of those areas.