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Property management glossary
Leasing & residents

Fair housing

Plain-English definition

The body of federal, state, and local rules intended to prevent unlawful housing discrimination.

What fair housing means in practice

The federal Fair Housing Act protects specified classes, while state and local laws may protect additional groups. Consistent criteria, standardized records, accessible processes, and professional legal guidance are central to reducing risk.

Example

An owner applies the same published screening sequence and documentation standards to every applicant rather than making ad hoc exceptions.

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This glossary is educational and not legal, tax, lending, or accounting advice. Rules and terminology can vary by jurisdiction and professional context.