The Act prohibits discrimination in the sales or rental of residential or commercial property. A few examples of housing discrimination are: misrepresenting that property is not available for rental or sale; steering to rent or purchase a housing unit in locations other than the customer's preferred area; altering the terms, conditions or privileges of the transaction; refusing to receive or transmit a bona fide offer to rent or purchase; and refusing to negotiate.
Who must comply with fair housing provisions under the laws?
The Illinois Human Rights Act and the federal Fair Housing Act apply to real estate owners, managers, salespersons, brokers, rental agents, or other agents or employees of the owner or the owner's agents. Also, builders and appraisers are subject to the fair housing law. In addition to persons involved in real estate transactions, advertisers (newspapers and other publications that disseminate discriminatory advertising) and mortgage lenders (banks and loan brokers) can also be charged with discrimination under the Illinois Human Rights Act.
Does the Act provide protection in real estate transactions for people with disabilities?