Reasonable Accommodations Under the Fair Housing Act - Joint Statement of the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Justice

Reasonable Accommodations Under the Urban Development and the Department of Justice is a 15-page legal document that was released by the U.S. Department of Justice on May 17, 2004 and used nation-wide.

FAQ

Q: What is the Fair Housing Act?
A: The Fair Housing Act is a federal law that prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and familial status.

Q: What are reasonable accommodations?
A: Reasonable accommodations are changes or exceptions to rules, policies, practices, or services that may be necessary for persons with disabilities to have an equal opportunity to use and enjoy their housing.

Q: Who is protected by the Fair Housing Act?
A: The Fair Housing Act protects individuals from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and familial status.

Q: What is the purpose of the joint statement from HUD and DOJ?
A: The joint statement provides guidance on how the Fair Housing Act applies to requests for reasonable accommodations.

Q: Who enforces the Fair Housing Act?
A: The Fair Housing Act is enforced by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Department of Justice (DOJ).

Q: What should I do if I believe my rights under the Fair Housing Act have been violated?
A: If you believe your rights have been violated, you should contact HUD or DOJ to file a complaint.

Q: What are some examples of reasonable accommodations?
A: Examples of reasonable accommodations may include allowing a service animal for a person with a disability or providing a reserved parking space for a person with mobility impairments.

Q: Can a landlord deny a reasonable accommodation request?
A: A landlord cannot deny a reasonable accommodation request if it is necessary for a person with a disability to have an equal opportunity to use and enjoy their housing.

Q: Are there any exceptions to the Fair Housing Act?
A: There are some limited exceptions to the Fair Housing Act, but they are narrow and should be carefully considered.

Q: What are the penalties for violating the Fair Housing Act?
A: The penalties for violating the Fair Housing Act can include monetary damages, civil fines, and injunctive relief.