Fair Housing & Legal Disclaimer

Information about fair housing practices and legal requirements

Fair Housing Notice

Howardhomes is committed to providing equal housing opportunities and complies with all applicable fair housing laws. Discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, familial status, or other protected characteristics is strictly prohibited.

1. Fair Housing Act Compliance

Howardhomes operates in compliance with:

Fair Housing Act (FHA) - Federal law prohibiting housing discrimination
Civil Rights Act of 1964 - Prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) - Requires accommodation for individuals with disabilities
Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) - Governs use of credit reports and background checks
State and Local Fair Housing Laws - Additional protections in jurisdictions where we operate

2. Protected Classes

Under fair housing laws, discrimination is prohibited based on the following characteristics:

Federal Protected Classes

• Race or color
• National origin
• Religion
• Sex and gender identity
• Disability
• Familial status (children)
• Sexual orientation

Additional Considerations

• Service animals and support animals
• Reasonable accommodations
• Reasonable modifications
• Source of income (in some states)
• Criminal history limitations
• Credit score discrimination

3. Prohibited Practices

Howardhomes strictly prohibits the following discriminatory practices:

Steering: Directing tenants toward or away from certain properties based on protected characteristics
Redlining: Refusing services in certain neighborhoods or geographic areas
Blockbusting: Exploiting fears of neighborhood change for profit
Differential Treatment: Providing different terms, conditions, or services based on protected status
Housing Advertisements: Refusing to advertise properties in protected areas or using discriminatory language
Selective Screening: Applying different qualification standards based on protected characteristics
Retaliation: Taking adverse action against individuals who assert fair housing rights
Harassment: Creating a hostile environment based on protected characteristics

4. Credit Checks and Background Screening

When landlords or property managers use credit reports and background checks through our platform:

They must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)
They must obtain written consent before running credit or background checks
They must provide adverse action notices if applications are denied
They cannot use criteria that have a disparate impact on protected classes without legitimate business necessity
Applicants have the right to dispute inaccurate information on their credit reports

Note: Having a criminal history does not automatically disqualify an applicant. Landlords must consider factors such as the nature and severity of the offense, time elapsed, and evidence of rehabilitation.

5. Reasonable Accommodations and Modifications

Landlords must make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, including:

Allowing service animals and emotional support animals
Waiving pet deposits for service animals
Modifying policies to accommodate disabilities
Providing accessible units when available
Permitting reasonable modifications to units
Making accessibility modifications to common areas

If you require a reasonable accommodation, contact the landlord or property manager. We will work to ensure your request is properly considered in accordance with fair housing laws.

6. Landlord Responsibilities

Landlords and property managers using our platform must:

Apply consistent screening criteria to all applicants
Base decisions on legitimate, non-discriminatory factors
Document their screening decisions and criteria
Treat all applicants with respect and dignity
Provide clear, consistent communication
Comply with all applicable fair housing laws
Maintain properties in compliance with housing codes

7. Tenant Responsibilities

Tenants using our platform must:

Provide accurate, truthful information on applications
Respond to requests for information from landlords
Comply with lease terms and building rules
Treat other residents and neighbors with respect
Maintain the property in good condition
Report unsafe or uninhabitable conditions promptly

8. Reporting Fair Housing Violations

If you believe you have experienced housing discrimination or fair housing violations, you can file a complaint with:

HUD Fair Housing Hotline

Phone: 1-800-669-9777

Email: fairhousing@hud.gov

Florida Commission on Human Relations

Phone: 850-488-7082

Website: www.fla-chr.gov

Howardhomes Compliance Report

Email: compliance@howardhomes.com

You can also report violations directly to us for investigation.

9. Howardhomes Fair Housing Commitment

Howardhomes is committed to:

Providing equal access to all users regardless of protected characteristics
Investigating all reported fair housing violations
Taking appropriate action against violators, including removal from our platform
Training landlord partners on fair housing requirements
Maintaining transparency in our screening and matching processes
Supporting fair housing organizations and initiatives

10. Disclaimer

Howardhomes is a marketplace platform that connects tenants with landlords and property managers.

Please be aware of the following:

We do not guarantee the accuracy of all property information or listing details
We are not responsible for the actions of landlords or other users
We do not perform legal reviews of leases or rental agreements
We do not provide legal advice regarding housing rights or obligations
We do not guarantee housing availability or favorable terms
Applicants are responsible for independently verifying property information and landlord credentials

11. Contact Howardhomes

For questions about fair housing, compliance, or to report violations:

Howardhomes Compliance Team

Email: compliance@howardhomes.com

Phone: (555) 123-4567

Address: Orlando, FL