As a current or prospective homeowner or renter, it is important to know that you are protected against unlawful discrimination. Federal and state Fair Housing laws make it illegal to discriminate against people when renting or purchasing a unit based on any of the following:

• Age
• Ancestry
• Children & lead paint (property owners are required to conduct lead abatement so that no family has to choose between housing & safety)
• Color
• Disability
• Familial status (families with children under 18)
• Genetic information
• Marital status
• National origin
• Race
• Gender identity
• Sex
• Sexual orientation
• Source of income (e.g. Section 8 voucher holder, buyer using an FHA mortgage)
• Veteran or Active Military Status

If you believe you have been a victim of housing discrimination, you may contact the Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General's Civil Rights Division at (617) 727-2200 to file a civil rights complaint. In addition, you may file with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination at (617) 994-6000.

If you are unsure, the Town of Westwood's Housing & Land Use Planner is available to discuss your questions and help you understand your rights.

Important Resources

• Massachusetts Landlord and Tenant Laws
• United States Department of Justice Fair Housing Act
• Fair Housing Center of Greater Boston
• Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination
• MetroMediation - mediation services for court, tenants & landlords, neighbors, consumers & businesses, etc. 
• MetroWest Legal Help