Missouri Fair Housing Compliance: Laws & Protected Classes Guide

Understanding and complying with Missouri's fair housing laws is essential for property managers, real estate professionals, and housing providers. This comprehensive guide covers the key aspects of Missouri's fair housing regulations, protected classes, and compliance requirements.

Key Takeaways

• Missouri fair housing laws prohibit discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, disability, and familial status
• Housing providers must ensure their practices, policies, and marketing materials comply with both state and federal fair housing laws
• Violations can result in significant penalties and legal consequences
• Regular compliance reviews and staff training are essential for maintaining compliance
• Technology solutions can help prevent inadvertent violations

Understanding Missouri's Fair Housing Laws

Missouri's fair housing laws work in conjunction with federal regulations to protect individuals from discrimination in housing transactions. The Missouri Human Rights Act (MHRA) is the primary state law addressing housing discrimination, complementing the federal Fair Housing Act.

Protected Classes in Missouri

Under Missouri law, it is illegal to discriminate in housing based on: - Race - Color - Religion - National origin - Ancestry - Sex - Disability - Familial status (including pregnancy)

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Prohibited Discriminatory Practices

Housing providers in Missouri must avoid engaging in the following discriminatory practices:

1. Refusing to sell or rent housing
2. Setting different terms, conditions, or privileges
3. Making discriminatory statements or advertisements
4. Falsely denying housing availability
5. Steering prospective residents to specific neighborhoods
6. Refusing reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities

For more information about avoiding discriminatory language in advertising, see our guide on preventing discriminatory language in property advertisements.

Compliance Requirements for Housing Providers

Documentation and Record Keeping

Maintain detailed records of: - Rental applications and screening criteria - Tenant selection processes - Accommodation requests and responses - Marketing materials and advertisements - Maintenance requests and responses - Employee training records

Fair Housing Policies

Develop and implement: - Written fair housing policies - Standardized rental criteria - Reasonable accommodation procedures - Complaint handling processes - Employee training programs

Marketing and Advertising

Ensure all marketing materials: - Avoid discriminatory language - Include the Equal Housing Opportunity logo - Are consistent across all platforms - Comply with digital marketing compliance guidelines

Reasonable Accommodations and Modifications

Accommodations for Persons with Disabilities

Housing providers must: - Consider all reasonable accommodation requests - Engage in interactive dialogue with requestors - Document all requests and responses - Make necessary policy exceptions when reasonable - Allow modifications at the resident's expense

For detailed guidance on accommodation requirements, see our article on preventing fair housing lawsuits.

Best Practices for Maintaining Compliance

Staff Training

Regular training should cover: - Protected classes and prohibited practices - Proper handling of accommodation requests - Consistent application of policies - Documentation requirements - Complaint handling procedures

Regular Compliance Reviews

Conduct periodic reviews of: - Marketing materials and listings - Rental criteria and procedures - Maintenance response practices - Employee understanding and compliance - Documentation systems

Technology Solutions

Implement tools for: - Automated compliance screening - Documentation management - Training tracking - Marketing review - Accommodation request tracking

Protect your property from fair housing violations with automated compliance screening. See how FairSentry works to maintain consistent compliance.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Violations of Missouri fair housing laws can result in: - Civil penalties - Compensatory damages - Punitive damages - Attorney fees and costs - Mandatory training requirements - Monitoring and reporting obligations

For more information about potential penalties, see our article on fair housing violation penalties.

Special Considerations

Familial Status

When dealing with familial status: - Avoid occupancy standards that unreasonably restrict families - Ensure marketing doesn't discourage families - Apply safety rules consistently - Allow reasonable family-related accommodations

Religious Accommodations

Consider: - Religious practice accommodations - Modification requests for religious reasons - Holiday decorations policies - Religious symbol display guidelines

Language Accessibility

Provide:

• Translation services when needed
• Multi-language materials when appropriate
• Equal service regardless of English proficiency
• Clear communication policies

Creating a Compliance Strategy

Develop a comprehensive compliance strategy that includes: 1. Written policies and procedures 2. Regular staff training 3. Documentation systems 4. Marketing review processes 5. Complaint handling procedures

For detailed guidance, see our article on creating a fair housing compliance strategy.

FAQs

What are the primary fair housing enforcement agencies in Missouri?

The Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) are the primary enforcement agencies.

How long do housing providers need to maintain fair housing records?

While specific requirements vary, it's recommended to maintain records for at least three years after the transaction or incident.

Are there any exemptions to Missouri's fair housing laws?

Some limited exemptions exist, but they are narrow and should be carefully reviewed with legal counsel before being relied upon.

What should I do if I receive a fair housing complaint?

Document the complaint, respond promptly and professionally, and consider seeking legal counsel for guidance on proper handling.

How often should staff receive fair housing training?

Annual training is recommended, with additional training when laws change or new staff are hired.

Conclusion

Compliance with Missouri's fair housing laws requires ongoing attention to policies, procedures, and practices. Regular training, documentation, and the use of compliance tools can help housing providers maintain compliance and avoid violations. Stay informed about law changes and maintain consistent application of fair housing principles across all aspects of property management.

For comprehensive protection against fair housing violations, consider implementing automated compliance screening tools and regular staff training programs. Technology solutions can help identify potential violations before they become problems and maintain consistent compliance across all property listings and marketing materials.