In this blog post, we will delve into a recent case that carries an essential lesson for landlords and real estate professionals. It emphasizes the severe consequences of discriminating against Section 8 voucher holders and violating the Fair Housing Act.
Understanding the Fair Housing Act:
The Fair Housing Act is a crucial federal law that prohibits housing discrimination based on seven primary classes: race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability.It extends nationwide protection against such discrimination. However, some local and state laws can provide additional safeguards and extend protection to more classes. In the case of Washington, D.C., which boasts tenant-friendly laws, these extended protections include 13 additional classes, notably age, family responsibility, gender identity, and source of income. The latter is particularly relevant as it prevents discrimination against Section 8 voucher holders.
The Shocking Story:
Our narrative revolves around a recent case that involved three real estate companies and their executives. These companies faced a significant $10 million fine for their discriminatory practices against Section 8 voucher holders, marking a significant precedent in the U.S.
The Discrimination:
The case began in 2020 when allegations of illegal practices came to light, brought forward by a whistleblower. While the whistleblower’s identity remains undisclosed, their complaints led to a comprehensive investigation by the D.C. Office of the Tenant Advocate. The ensuing investigation uncovered a series of damning emails exchanged between the companies’ executives.
These emails revealed a concerted effort to exclude Section 8 voucher holders from their properties. In one email, an executive stressed the need to reject Section 8 applicants, even suggesting ways to avoid placing voucher holders in renovated units. Another executive explicitly mentioned the desire to eliminate Section 8 participation from their communities, indicating tightened screening criteria to achieve this goal.