need to consider national, state, and local housing laws when renting out your home. Regularly check in with your attorney to make sure that a) you are aware of all applicable Fair Housing laws to your area, and b) you are actually following them and are in compliance with them. In addition to all Fair Housing laws, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), which protects people living with disabilities from discrimination in many different areas—housing included. There may be other laws particular to your area, so, again, do your research/homework and consult your attorney so your butt is covered! Make your attorney work for his/her paycheck! Ignorance is not bliss; it’s not even an excuse. You can’t just say “I’m sorry, I didn’t know!” when you’re defending yourself against a legitimate Fair Housing complaint. It’s your responsibility to be in the know. And if you’re not, then get there! Research, familiarize yourself, and consult your attorney for confirmation.
PUT IN PLACE POLICIES TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM COMPLAINTS
Once you’re well aware of all Fair Housing and discrimination- related laws, and are following them, you need to put in place policies to protect yourself, your property, your company (and don’t forget your reputation) from any and all complaints. Use your minimum qualification standards (Chapter 3) to your advantage. Remember, you’ve ensured these standards are legal and fair, and that they protect you. Your tenants have to meet these standards, and they have to sign the lease that includes every detail you’ve carefully covered. This way, if anyone whom you denied as a renter accuses you of violating Fair Housing,
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