Whether you currently serve on a condominium association’s board of directors or you want to purchase a condo, it is pivotal to go over relevant laws. Aside from laws put in place at the state level, it is also crucial to have a clear understanding of federal legislation that applies to condo associations, such as the Fair Housing Act.
The Fair Housing Act covers a number of issues, such as housing discrimination against residents and applicants due to a disability, failure to provide reasonable accommodations and other types of discrimination.
The Fair Housing Act prohibits housing discrimination
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, courts can apply the Fair Housing Act to condominium associations and other entities involved in housing, such as homeowners associations, property owners, lenders and real estate managers. This legislation bars condo associations from discriminating against residents as well as applicants due to their racial background, sex, national origin, familial status or disability.
Reasonable accommodations under the Fair Housing Act
Housing providers covered by the Fair Housing Act cannot treat disabled applicants or residents unfavorably solely because of their disability, and they must provide reasonable accommodations when necessary. In some instances, this involves modifying a unit or common area to accommodate a disabled resident. Reasonable accommodations also apply to policies, practices, rules and services, and housing providers cannot place conditions on residents as a result of their disability.
If you have questions regarding discrimination and the Fair Housing Act, it is essential to carefully go over the ins and outs of your unique circumstances and take action.