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Creating Inclusive Communities of Opportunity

The Fair Housing Center was established in 1975 in response to discriminatory housing practices.

Today, we continue to make sure all persons are given equal opportunity in the housing market. All who seek housing should have an equal opportunity to rent, purchase, finance, or insure the property they choose.

ADVOCATE

If your rights have been violated, we will be your number one supporter. Persons who experience discrimination are often confused and frustrated, and we are here to help every step of the way. No one should feel like they are alone in the fight for justice, and The Fair Housing Center will provide resources to empower you.

EDUCATE

The Fair Housing Center understands that some people may not be aware of the fair housing laws or how to identify discriminatory practices. To share this information with the public and housing professionals, we distribute materials, offer trainings, host outreach events, and much more. By ensuring everyone is familiar with fair housing rights, we can help to eliminate discriminatory practices. Our education and outreach efforts can also help people to recognize when they are being treated unfairly.

INVESTIGATE

The Fair Housing Center is here to ensure all people have the same access to opportunities. Being treated in a discriminatory manner is unjust and unlawful. If you feel that you have been treated unfairly we will actively listen to your complaint. When necessary, we can investigate and pursue enforcement action.

If You Feel You’ve Been Treated Unfairly

  • Contact The Fair Housing Center at 419-243-6163.
  • Keep all receipts, business cards, applications, or other documents received during the transaction.
  • Write down the events as they happen. Include dates, names, telephone numbers, addresses, and other important details.

Discrimination can be subtle. Here are some potential signs...

  • You are told that the unit (house, apartment) has just been rented when you show up to view it or when you call to inquire about it, but you keep seeing a “For Rent” sign.
  • A landlord tells you, “This is a quiet area, and children can be loud. Perhaps you will be happier elsewhere.”
  • You call about an apartment (or house) to rent, and the landlord never returns your call, despite the fact the apartment is still available.
  • Your realtor only shows you homes in certain neighborhoods, despite your request to be shown other properties.
  • The landlord asks for a security deposit or monthly fee for a service animal. Service and assistance animals aren’t “pets,” and housing providers are not allowed to charge fees for them.
  • A mortgage lender won’t consider your income because you are pregnant and taking maternity leave.

TFHC Info Brochure

Fair Housing Brochure
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