Protected Classes
Protected classes are groups of people who are legally shielded from discrimination based on specific characteristics.
The Fair Housing Act identifies specific characteristics that cannot be used as a basis for denying housing opportunities. These include race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status (families with children under 18), and disability. Many states and localities expand upon these federal protections to include additional classes such as sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, and source of income. Understanding these protections is crucial for real estate professionals to ensure they treat all individuals fairly and avoid discriminatory practices.
A landlord refuses to rent to a family because they have two young children. This is illegal discrimination based on familial status.
Memorize the federal protected classes: Remember 'FRSH CRN' representing Familial status, Race, Sex, Handicap (Disability), Color, Religion, National origin. Pay close attention to state-specific protected classes, as these often vary.
Related Terms
Practice Questions
Under Connecticut law, refusing to rent based on source of income is:
Oregon fair housing law adds which protected classes beyond federal law?
Under Oregon law, refusing to rent based on source of income is:
Under the , an employer may not discriminate against a disabled person who seeks employment due to that person’s disability.
Nevada fair housing law adds which protected classes beyond federal law?
New Jersey's Law Against Discrimination adds which protected classes beyond federal law?
The Texas Fair Housing Act protects all federal classes plus:
The Florida Fair Housing Act protects all federal classes plus:
Source of income discrimination in NYC housing is:
Under the Fair Housing Act, which of the following is a protected class?
Related Concepts
Many states and localities have fair housing laws that expand upon the protections offered by the federal Fair Housing Act.
Violating fair housing laws can lead to significant penalties, including fines, civil liability, and professional discipline.
Fair housing laws apply to a broad range of activities related to housing, including sale, rental, financing, and advertising.