Is a landlord allowed to discriminate against tenants based on their occupation under Fair Housing Law?
The answer to this question is no—discrimination based on occupation is not allowed under Fair Housing Law in Washington. The Fair Housing Act of 1968 is a federal law designed to protect people from discrimination when they are looking for housing. Under this law, it is illegal to discriminate against any tenant or potential tenant on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status or disability. In the state of Washington, the Washington State Human Rights Commission (WSHRC) works to ensure that all people are able to access and enjoy housing that is free from discrimination. According to the Fair Housing Act and the Washington State Human Rights Commission, it is illegal for a landlord to discriminate against tenants based on their occupation. This includes any kind of occupation, such as full-time, part-time, seasonal, or volunteer position. If a landlord violates the Fair Housing Act, a tenant may pursue a complaint with either the Washington State Human Rights Commission or the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. The tenant may also have the option to sue the landlord in civil court. In summary, discriminatory practices against tenants based on occupation are prohibited in Washington State under the Fair Housing Law. Landlords must treat all potential tenants the same and provide equal opportunity to all potential tenants.
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