The Fair Housing Act (FHA) protects individuals and families from discrimination in housing. Certain mortgage lending practices or actions are prohibited. For example, discrimination in appraising property is not allowed under FHA. An appraiser is prohibited from under-valuing a home based on the homeowner’s race, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability.
Who to contact?
Residents of Houston may seek assistance from the Housing and Community Development department (HCD). This department was founded in 1989 and now has a mission “to make investments that serve Houstonians’ housing needs and build a more equitable city by creating safe, resilient homes, and vibrant, healthy communities.” You may report housing discrimination to HCD at their Fair Housing Hotline: 832-394-6200, extension 5.
How to file a complaint?
Local Counseling Agencies
Non-profit agencies that receive funding from HUD under the Fair Housing Initiatives Program (FHIP) are available to assist with discrimination complaints. Residents of Houston may contact the Greater Houston Fair Housing Center, Inc. for support. (713) 641-3247
Enter a complaint directly with the State of Texas
The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Civil Rights Division is the agency responsible for investigating violations of the Fair Housing Act in the state of Texas. Check TWC’s website to find out about deadlines, complaint requirements, and how to submit a complaint. Complaints may be submitted by email, fax, hand delivery, online, mail, or filed electronically.
File a complaint directly with HUD
Contact the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) if you would like to enter a federal complaint. The office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) has complete information on the complaint and investigation process. A downloadable complaint form is available in the following languages: Arabic, Cambodian, Chinese, English, Korean, Russian, Somali, Spanish, and Vietnamese.
In addition, the HUD toll-free teletypewriter (TTY) line: 1-800-877-8339 is available for persons with disabilities. Persons with limited English proficiency will be provided with interpreters.
Further Reading
Housing Discrimination in Texas – Renters and Homebuyers from TexasLawHelp.Org
Black couple settles lawsuit claiming their home appraisal was lowballed due to bias by Vanessa Romo from NPR.Org