What Is the Illinois Human Rights Act?

The Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits any discriminatory practices when it comes to real estate transactions. This can include the refusal to rent or sell properties based on certain factors. Additionally, the Act protects against discriminatory terms or conditions and price discrimination. We understand how the laws apply to your circumstance and can help you if you feel you have been a victim of housing discrimination.

According to the Illinois Department of Human Rights, the Act prohibits discrimination based on color, race, sex, religion, national origin, ancestry, pregnancy, age, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, military discharge status, and both mental and physical disabilities.

This act applies to most types of residential property including houses, condos, apartments, vacant land, and mobile home parks. Additionally, commercial property is also covered under the Human Rights Act.

If you believe you have been a victim of discrimination regarding any sort of real estate transaction, you can file a formal charge with IDHR. The statute of limitations is one year from when the discrimination occurs, so be sure to file as soon as possible. In circumstances where you file charges quickly, the IHDR may be able to get a court order to provide injunctive relief. This prevents the property owner from selling or renting the property to someone else while the investigation commences.

If the court finds that a housing provider violates the Act, a judge may issue civil penalties to them and offer you compensatory damages. This can help to cover attorney fees and any embarrassment or humiliation you felt as a result of their actions.