What Are My Rights If I’m Denied Housing Because Of My Religion?

Being denied housing due to religious discrimination is a violation of your civil rights. Under U.S. law, individuals are protected from discrimination in housing based on religion, among other factors. If you believe you have been denied housing because of your religion, there are legal measures you can take to address the situation.

Rights and Actions You Can Take If Denied Housing Due to Religion:

Fair Housing Act Protections:

Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), it is illegal for landlords or housing providers to refuse to rent, lease, or sell a property to someone based on their religion. This includes refusal due to religious practices or beliefs.

Seek Clarification:

If you suspect discrimination, ask the landlord or housing provider for clarification about why your application was denied. It’s important to document their responses.

File a Complaint:

If you believe your rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or your local housing agency. Complaints must generally be filed within one year of the alleged discrimination.

Contact a Legal Professional:

If you feel that your case requires more immediate or complex legal action, consider consulting a lawyer who specializes in housing discrimination or civil rights law.

File a Lawsuit:

In certain cases, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the housing provider in state or federal court for violation of the Fair Housing Act.

Legal Actions and Protections:

Religious Discrimination:

The FHA prohibits discrimination on the basis of religion, race, color, national origin, sex, familial status, and disability. This includes the refusal to rent or lease housing.

Equal Opportunity:

Housing providers are required to treat all applicants equally, and religious discrimination is a violation of this principle.

Redress and Compensation:

If you win a case, you may be entitled to compensation, including potential damages for emotional distress, legal fees, and punitive damages depending on the case's specifics.

Example:

Suppose you're a renter who applies for an apartment, and after the application is denied, you learn that the landlord refused your application because of your religion. Here’s what you can do:

• Document the Incident: Record all details of the interaction with the landlord, including any statements made about your religion.
• File a Complaint: You file a complaint with HUD, explaining that you were denied housing because of your religion.
• Seek Legal Help: A lawyer may guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit if the situation doesn’t resolve through HUD's investigation.
• Potential Outcome: If your complaint is upheld, you may receive compensation, and the landlord may be required to change their practices.