Fair Housing

Which federal agency primarily enforces the Fair Housing Act?

AThe Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

BThe Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)✓ Correct

CThe Department of Justice (DOJ)

DThe Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

Explanation

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is the primary federal agency responsible for administering and enforcing the Fair Housing Act. Complaints may be filed with HUD, and the DOJ may also bring cases involving patterns of discrimination.

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.

Agency

A legal relationship in which a licensee (agent) acts on behalf of a principal (buyer or seller) in a real estate transaction.

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.