Landlord Agrees to Pay $855,000 Fine
The landlord admitted that he violated the Fair Housing Act by subjecting female tenants and applicants to unwanted sexual comments and touching.
He was accused of entering the apartments of female tenants without notice or permission, granting tangible housing benefits in exchange for sexual favors and taking adverse actions against female tenants when they refused his sexual advances.
The women involved were subjected to intimidating and severe acts of unwanted sexual conduct in their homes, where they expected to feel safe, said Thomas E. Perez, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. This judgment reflects the gravity of the alleged conduct.
As part of the settlement agreement, the landlord must retain an independent management company to manage any currently rented units and any future rental properties he acquires.
This helps right the wrongs committed against vulnerable individuals, said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio Carter Stewart. Going forward, the decree sends a message that property owners must respect the rights of their tenants and those who seek safe, secure housing.
With AAOA, landlords have resources at their fingertips. Check out our Landlord Forms page.
American Apartment Owners Association offers discounts on products and services for landlords related to your rental housing investment, including rental forms, tenant debt collection, tenant background checks, insurance and financing. Find out more at www.joinaaoa.org
Accessibility