Fair Housing & Civil Rights

Fair housing is a set of principles and laws that mandate equal access and opportunity in housing. Fair housing covers all housing-related activities, from search and application to amenities, management policies, terms and conditions plus termination of tenancy. Fair housing covers persons who are members of a protected class which are designated as groups of persons and their families that historically have experienced discrimination. In Massachusetts, those classes are race, religion, national origin, gender, disability, familial status, marital status, sexual orientation, public assistance (including rental vouchers), genetic information, and military status.

Metro Housing|Boston has committed to equal opportunity and access to housing for all by incorporating fair housing principles into its services. We provide trainings to both tenants and property owners regarding their rights and responsibilities under the federal Fair Housing Act of 1988 and the state fair housing law, Chapter 151B. Staff members also provide technical assistance on fair housing and refer clients to other related services in Greater Boston.

The Massachusetts Attorney General’s office recognizes the importance of access to housing, and has prepared these guides in English and Spanish to help educate residents and landlords on their rights and obligations in this area.