Fair Housing Compliance Cheat Sheet
One-page quick reference guide to fair housing laws and compliance requirements.
Protected Classes (Federal)
- ✓ Race
- ✓ Color
- ✓ Religion
- ✓ National Origin
- ✓ Sex (including gender identity)
- ✓ Familial Status (children under 18)
- ✓ Disability
Prohibited Practices
- ✗ Refusing to rent based on protected class
- ✗ Setting different terms or conditions
- ✗ Advertising that indicates preference
- ✗ Falsely denying availability
- ✗ Steering tenants to certain areas
- ✗ Refusing reasonable accommodations
- ✗ Refusing reasonable modifications
- ✗ Harassment or intimidation
Reasonable Accommodations
- • Service animals (not pets)
- • Reserved parking spaces
- • Modified lease terms
- • Assistance with applications
Reasonable Modifications
- • Ramps or grab bars
- • Widened doorways
- • Accessible fixtures
- • Tenant pays (may require restoration)
⚠️ Important Notes
- • State and local laws may add more protected classes
- • Always apply criteria consistently to all applicants
- • Document all decisions and reasons
- • When in doubt, consult with attorney