Federal housing providers have a number of valid reasons to look at criminal records. They must make sure that their residents feel safe in their homes. While housing providers cannot deny all applicants with a criminal record, they are justified in excluding applicants with a recent history of crimes that threaten the health, safety or right to peaceful enjoyment of the premises by residents and staff. Recent convictions for violent or drug-related crimes often fall under this type of exclusion.
The 2016 HUD guidance balances the need to provide a safe living environment with the Fair Housing Act's nondiscrimination requirements. If a federal housing provider uses criminal history as part of its application review, HUD requires an analysis of whether its policy is discriminatory.
Make sure you have the accommodations you need.
If you have special needs because of a disability, HUD housing authorities must provide reasonable accommodations for you to apply.Lorraine Dale says:
"I have visited Affordable Housing Online over and over again to get on waiting lists. I never would have even gotten on them without this information!"