Legal Glossary

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z #

-H-

Hazard insurance: Also known as homeowner's insurance or fire insurance, hazard insurance covers physical risks such as fire and wind damage. Lenders usually require coverage for at least the replacement value of the home.

Hearing: A proceeding usually without a jury.  In worker’s compensation and social security disability cases, it is a stage in an administrative appeal process at which claim is heard by an administrative law judge.

Home inspection: An examination of a home's construction, condition, and internal systems by an inspector or contractor prior to purchase.

Homeowner's Dues: Any money required by a Homeowners Association.  Also referred to as assessments.

Hostile Working Environment: A work environment that is so charged with harassment or similar unwanted behavior that it interferes with the ability to do one's job and is said to violate anti-discrimination laws.

HUD: Abbreviation of (the U.S. Department of) Housing and Urban Development, a federal agency that oversees the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and a variety of housing and community development programs.