The Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) is an agency within the U.S. Under these laws, you also have a right to rent accommodation where you wish, if you can afford it. Equal Housing Opportunity TexasĮqual opportunity housing, sometimes called 'equal housing opportunity,' refers to the idea that everyone has the same right to a fair process regarding property financing decisions. However, owner-occupied structures with no more than four units, single-family homes sold or rented without a broker, and properties run by organizations and private clubs that only allow members to live there are some exceptions to the law.įurthermore, the rules prohibiting discrimination based on a person's familial status may not apply to housing developments that meet the criteria for being designated as housing for people 55 and older. The Texas Fair Housing Act covers most housing. Mortgage lenders have the right to reject your loan request if they believe you will need to make more money or if you have a significant chance of losing your job and being unable to meet payment deadlines. The landlord or seller may refuse to rent to a disabled person if they directly endanger the neighbors' health, safety, or property. You may be denied of renting or purchasing a house in Texas if you've been found guilty of producing or distributing drugs in any state. Therefore, a person with a known drug addiction is not protected by the TFHA. Addiction impairs people’s lives, but it isn’t a legal disability. Surprisingly, landlords in Texas can reject your application for being single (or for being married). Some states have fair housing laws protecting this, however, as unfair as it sounds, Texas doesn’t. Technically, discrimination is still possible if based on: The Texas Fair Housing Act was designed to help individuals looking for a new home, yet it still has certain loopholes. What is not covered by the Texas Fair Housing Act?

Housing Discrimination Based on DisabilityĪccording to the Texas Fair Housing Act, a disability is a physical or mental condition that severely limits at least one major life activity.Īnyone who resides in your home, such as a child, spouse, or adult relative, or visits you is subject to this regulation. Texas housing laws prohibit discrimination against you for: But others, such as family, can be challenging to understand.įamilial status refers to what type of family situation you’re in. Some protected groups, like race or religion, are straightforward. Housing Discrimination Based on Familial Status Sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation).Moreover, the FHA prohibits discrimination in housing based on: The Texas Fair Housing Act (TFHA) protects your rights when: What does the Texas Fair Housing Act Cover? It’s best to contact your city to find out the regulations specific to your city.

Keep in mind, Texas has different fair housing laws in several cities. Additionally, fair housing options are developed by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. The Texas Fair Housing Act is enforced by the Civil Rights Division of the Texas Workforce Commission. TFHA is slightly more explicit than the federal Fair Housing Act.Texas has a specific procedure for processing complaints.

However, Texas has its own fair housing law, the Texas Fair Housing Act (TFHA).

Engaging in other housing-related activities.

Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), people are protected from discrimination when they are: Before searching for a new home, it's crucial to comprehensively understand how these housing discrimination laws work. It protects you from individuals trying to deny you access to these opportunities. That's why the Texas Fair Housing Act (TFHA) exists.

Are you considering purchasing a new home in Texas but need help understanding the fair housing laws? No matter who you are or where you come from, you deserve the golden opportunity to buy, rent, or insure a property in Texas.

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