Rockford Area Landlord Pays Damages for Racial Insult

WINNEBAGO COUNTY — In July 2025, a Winnebago County landlord agreed to pay $20,000 to a Prairie State Legal Services (PSLS) client after violating the Federal Fair Housing Act.

Our client – a Black woman – contacted a Rockford-area landlord to apply for housing relating to a listed rental property. The landlord responded with racial insults and refused to accept her housing application for the rental property. That is when she reported the incident to PSLS.

PSLS represented her and successfully sued the landlord in federal court for violations of the Fair Housing Act. The case was resolved this summer when our client received a $20,000 settlement. PSLS’ work not only helps our client but also educates landlords in our communities on the requirements of the Federal Fair Housing Act.

If you or someone you know has experienced fair housing issues, contact PSLS at 855-347-7757 to speak with a member of our staff and apply for our services.