Each one of us has the right to equal treatment when renting or buying a home. Federal, state, and local laws protect us from being discriminated against based on a number of different “protected classes”, such as race, religion, national origin, disability, presence of children in a family, sex, marital status, and source of income.

Fair housing is not only everyone's right, it also makes our communities better places to live. Studies have shown that a diverse community is a healthy and desirable community.

Have You Experienced Housing Discrimination?

Housing discrimination today is often more subtle than a slammed door or a rude remark. Unsuspecting home or apartment seekers may be politely turned away from housing of their choice, even though they are qualified.

If you’ve heard remarks such as these or other discouraging comments while looking for a place to live, you may have experienced housing discrimination:

• “We don’t rent to more than two people for a two-bedroom apartment.”
• “We don’t rent to people without a job, even if you get disability benefits.”
• “I'm sorry.  This building is for 'professionals'.”
• “We don’t rent to families; most people in this building are older”
• “This is a quiet neighborhood. Your children won't have many friends here.”
• “You can’t build a ramp for access to the building—it won’t look good.”
• “This is a Christian community. You might not feel comfortable here.”
• “We just rented the apartment.” But the unit still is available the next day.

What Can You Do?

If you feel you are being treated unfairly in one of the northern suburbs of Chicago, take the following steps:

• Contact Interfaith’s Fair Housing staff at 847-501-3278, ext. 501.
• Document the problem by writing down what happens during meetings and phone calls with the landlord, property manager, real estate agent, loan officer or insurance agent.
• Keep detailed records as to what was said and the outcome.
• Save all receipts, copies of application forms, business cards and other relevant documents.
• Don't delay if you are considering filing a complaint—there are time limits of 180 days to one year, depending on the jurisdiction.

How Interfaith Can Help

If you have experienced discrimination, contact Interfaith Fair Housing staff at 847-501-3278, ext. 501.

We will evaluate the facts of your situation and inform you of your rights and options.  When appropriate, we can:

• Investigate your claim of housing discrimination
• Assist you with the filing of a fair housing complaint with the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), or the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR)
• Help conciliate your case with the offending party
• Refer your case to attorneys that are experts in fair housing litigation