Fair Housing Law in North Carolina
The Fair Housing Act is a federal law that prohibits discrimination in the sale or rental of housing based on certain protected characteristics, including race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. The law applies to most housing transactions and is enforced by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
In North Carolina, the fair housing law applies to all real estate transactions, including the sale and rental of single-family homes, multi-unit buildings, and condominiums. Real estate professionals, including agents, brokers, and landlords, are covered by the law and are prohibited from engaging in discriminatory practices.
One of the key provisions of the Fair Housing Act is that it prohibits discrimination in the sale or rental of housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. This means that real estate professionals are not allowed to steer prospective buyers or renters to certain neighborhoods or properties based on their protected characteristics. Additionally, real estate professionals are prohibited from making discriminatory statements or advertising that suggest a preference for or against certain groups of people.
Another important provision of the fair housing law is the requirement for reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities. This means that landlords and property owners must make reasonable changes to their policies or practices to allow individuals with disabilities equal opportunity to use and enjoy their housing. For example, a landlord may be required to install a ramp for a tenant in a wheelchair or make other modifications to a unit to make it accessible.
In North Carolina, the North Carolina Real Estate Commission is responsible for enforcing the fair housing laws as they pertain to real estate professionals. Real estate professionals found to be in violation of the fair housing laws can face penalties, including fines and revocation of their license.
Overall, the fair housing law is an important tool for ensuring that all individuals have equal access to housing in North Carolina. Real estate professionals have a responsibility to comply with the law and to ensure that their practices are fair and non-discriminatory. By working to eliminate discrimination in the housing market, we can help to create more inclusive and equitable communities for everyone.
As a real estate broker, we do not interpret the law, but we do follow it!
Thinking about Buying, Selling or Investing in Real Estate in the Charlotte and Union County markets? Contact the Collins Real Estate Agency today and we can help!