Fair Housing Rights: Know Your Protections as a Renter
The Fair Housing Act protects renters and homebuyers from discrimination. Understanding your rights can help you recognize and fight illegal practices.
Protected Classes
Federal law prohibits housing discrimination based on:
- Race or color
- National origin
- Religion
- Sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation)
- Familial status (having children)
- Disability
Disability Accommodations
Landlords must provide reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities. This may include allowing service animals even with no-pet policies, reserved parking, or modifications to the unit. Accommodations must be requested but cannot be refused if reasonable.
Filing a Complaint
If you experience housing discrimination, file a complaint with HUD at 1-800-669-9777 or hud.gov/fairhousing. Many states and cities have additional protections and enforcement agencies.
