HUD Handbook 4350.3 § 2-1

A.      Owners of HUD-subsidized multifamily properties are subject to several
                important federal civil rights laws affecting both admission and occupancy. These
                requirements seek to ensure that all applicants have equal access to affordable
                housing and that owners treat all tenants equitably. In addition, states and local
                jurisdictions often establish their own civil rights laws that affect rental housing.

        B.      This chapter provides an overview of key federal civil rights and
                nondiscrimination requirements that pertain to admissions and occupancy in
                properties subject to this handbook. It also presents examples to help explain
                these requirements and notes how to address circumstances when federal, state,
                and local requirements overlap.

        C.      The remaining chapters in the handbook will also refer to these requirements as
                they apply to the admissions or occupancy activities covered in that chapter.

        D.      This chapter is organized into four sections:

                    relevant to occupancy in HUD-subsidized multifamily housing.

                    summarizes the key nondiscrimination requirements established under the
                    Fair Housing Act that are applicable to multifamily housing.

                    Requirements for Persons with Disabilities explains the requirements and
                    procedures that owners of HUD-subsidized multifamily housing must follow to
                    ensure nondiscrimination and accessibility of their properties to persons with
                    disabilities as required by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and
                    the Fair Housing Act.

                    Reviews provides information about an owner’s responsibilities in the event
                    of a housing discrimination complaint and key references regarding fair
                    housing compliance reviews.

HUD Occupancy Handbook                           2-1                                             6/07
Chapter 2: Civil Rights and
Nondiscrimination Requirements