What is discrimination?

Discrimination is making a distinction in favor of or against a person, group, class or category of people.

What is housing discrimination?

Housing discrimination occurs when a party or individual denies housing based on age, race, color, national origin, sex, family status or disability of an individual, group, class or category of people.

Several federal laws prohibit housing discrimination. These laws include the Fair Housing Act.  

Can someone discriminate against me if I have negative credit information on my credit report?

The information contained in your credit report can be used in determining whether or not you can rent or purchase an apartment, condo, house or any other piece of real estate.

However, under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, you have the right to request a free credit report within 60 days if a company denies you credit based on the report.

Negative information in your credit report can be kept in your credit report for seven years; bankruptcy can be kept on the report for up to 10 years.

What should I do if I believe I have been discriminated against in a housing matter?

Speaking with an attorney can help determine if you have indeed been discriminated against in a matter related to housing.

If you are a low-income individual, you can call 1-866-529-6446 to find your local legal aid office, or you can search the Find Ohio Legal Help directory now.

See also the Forms & Education tab in this section for more information.