Fair Housing Rights

What is fair housing?

Fair housing ensures the right to choose housing free from unlawful discrimination. Protected by the Fair Housing Act and other civil rights laws, fair housing laws safeguard individuals from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, familial status, disability, marital status, and age.

These protections apply to all housing transactions, including rentals, sales, lending, and insurance. Whether you're looking for a place to live—renting, buying, or securing insurance—or after you’ve secured housing, fair housing laws uphold your right to live free from illegal discrimination.

Who is affected by fair housing issues?

Everyone! See attached for specific data of allegations by protected classes. In 2023, 52% of the cases were related to a difference in treatment in a rental transaction and 33% were a failure to provide a reasonable accommodation (such as assigning an accessible parking space or allowing an assistance animal) for a person with a disability.

Discrimination based on disability has been the number one allegation made in west Michigan since 2015. Prior to that, discrimination experienced by families with children was the top allegation (from 2007-2014). Between 1980, when the Center opened, and 2013, race-based allegations were the highest.

Where do people go if they encounter fair housing violations?

The Fair Housing Center of West Michigan (FHCWM).

FHCWM is a nonprofit that helps people know their fair housing rights. FHCWM investigates unfair treatment in housing. FHCWM also stands up for people’s fair housing rights. These services are free. You can make an anonymous report. You can call the FHCWM at 616-451-2980 or visit https://fhcwm.org/report-discrimination to complete an online form to start the process.

Fair housing complaints can also be reported to the U.S Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD), the Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR), and the City of Traverse City.

Signs of Discrimination

A refusal to sell, rent or show available housing
Offering different terms to different people
A statement that the dwelling is not right for your family
The dwelling has an "Available" sign, but you are told it is not available
Steering to certain communities or neighborhoods based on race, ethnic composition, or familial status
Terms or availability change between a phone contact and an in-person visit
You are not contacted after acceptance of your application
An unreasonable refusal to provide a mortgage loan or home owners insurance
You are harassed or intimidated
You are offered service or treatment that seems inappropriate