New HUD Guidelines for renting to persons with Limited English Proficiency.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) issued a number of new guidelines in 2016. One of HUD’s new guidelines is related to renting to persons with Limited English Proficiency, who represent nine percent of the United States population. The Fair Housing Act was passed in 1968 and prohibits housing discrimination. HUD is a government agency whose mission is to “create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all.” HUD plays a key role in enforcing the Federal Fair Housing Act.
Since Hawaii has a very diverse population and residents with national origins from around the world, all Hawaii real estate investors should know is that any requirement within a rental application for US citizenship or a certain immigration status discriminates based on National Origin, and is in violation of the Fair Housing Act. Additionally, discriminating based on a person’s primary language, or having a policy of only renting to persons who speak only certain languages, shows intentional discrimination based on National Origin because people of other nationalities are often identified by the languages they speak fluently. So, any advertising, notices or statements and policies that have these types of restrictions on language will most likely violate the Act.
Our experts at Real Property Management Alliance comply with Fair Housing regulations, and have the knowledge and skills to navigate these issues and keep your home leased to quality and qualified renters.
If you have questions about renting to tenants with limited English proficiency, call us at (808) 445-9500 or visit us at www.realpmalliance.com.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
