Finding a place to live should be fair and equal for everyone. That’s why the Fair Housing Act exists—to protect you from discrimination when renting, buying, or getting a loan for housing. No one should be denied a home because of their race, color, religion, national origin, gender, familial status (having children), or disability.

Unfortunately, housing discrimination still happens. Maybe you were told an apartment wasn’t available when it actually was. Or a landlord refused to rent to you because you have kids. Maybe a bank changed its loan terms because of your background, or a property owner refused to make reasonable accommodations for a disability. These are all examples of illegal housing discrimination.

Fair housing laws apply to landlords, property managers, real estate agents, banks, builders, and even homeowners selling or renting their own property. If you believe you’ve faced discrimination, resources are available to help.