Fair Housing

Fair housing laws were enacted to ensure everyone has equal access to the housing of their choice. Fair housing laws apply to housing providers (landlords), but also real estate brokers, mortgage lenders, homeowner associations, and others. The State of Colorado was the first in the nation to pass statewide fair housing laws, barring discrimination in housing in 1959, nine years before the signing of the federal Fair Housing Act. 

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The Fair Housing Act prohibits housing discrimination

Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, known as the Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing because of:

Race, Color, National Origin, Religion, Sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), Familial Status, and Disability.

Guidance on Application of the Fair Housing Act to the Screening of Applicants for Rental Housing

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Colorado Law prohibits housing discrimination

Protected Classes Enumerated at C.R.S. § 24-34-502:

Disability (a mental or physical impairment which substantially limits a major life activity), Race, Creed, Color, Religion, Sex, Sexual Orientation (which is statutorily defined as "including transgender status" - i.e. Gender Identity), Marital Status, Familial Status, National Origin, Ancestry, Source of Income*, Veteran or Military Status**

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File a housing discrimination complaint

The Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD) is charged with enforcement of the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA) and is certified by HUD FHEO as a "Fair Housing Assistance Program" or "FHAP" agency. Most CCRD cases are “dual filed” with HUD.

Contact the Colorado Civil Rights Division

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Affirmatively furthering fair housing

The Fair Housing Act requires HUD and its recipients of federal financial assistance to do more than simply not discriminate; they must take meaningful actions to overcome patterns of segregation and foster inclusive communities.

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Fair housing 101 - CCRD

CCRD hosts free training on Fair Housing and other topics. Check out the calendar on their home page at https://ccrd.colorado.gov/

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Renter rights education

The Housing and Homelessness Response Department collaborates with community partners to offer workshops and materials to educate the public on renter rights.