Does Fair Housing Law apply to all public and private housing?

Yes, Fair Housing Law applies to all public and private housing in Washington. The Washington State Civil Rights Act of 1976 established the Washington State Human Rights Commission to administer and enforce the state’s fair housing laws. This law protects individuals from discrimination based on race, color, religion, nationality, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, age, or honorably discharged veteran status. The Act applies to all landlords, property managers, real estate agents, brokers, and other housing providers. This means that it is illegal to deny housing to someone because of their race, religion, or other protected trait. The Fair Housing Law also applies to any housing related advertising, marketing, and rental practices. This means that a landlord cannot deny housing based on a tenant’s race, national origin, etc. They also cannot offer different rates, terms, or conditions of housing on the basis of race, national origin, etc. This applies to both public and private housing. Additionally, the Washington State Human Rights Commission has the authority to investigate and prosecute violations of the Washington State Civil Rights Act. This means that if someone feels that they’ve been discriminated against, they can file a complaint with the Commission. The Commission will then investigate the case and, if necessary, take action to enforce the law.

Related FAQs

Are landlords allowed to discriminate against individuals who receive public assistance in violation of Fair Housing Law?
What is Fair Housing Law?
What are the filing fees for complaints about a violation of Fair Housing Law?
How can a tenant report a violation of Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to charge pet deposits or fees in violation of Fair Housing Law?
What kind of evidence is required for a Fair Housing Law complaint?
Is a landlord required to provide accessible features in units in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Is a landlord responsible for the actions of other tenants in violation of Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to discriminate against families with children in violation of Fair Housing Law?
What happens if a landlord or seller violates Fair Housing Law?

Related Blog Posts

What is Fair Housing Law and How Does it Impact Home Ownership? - July 31, 2023
Understanding Your Rights Under Fair Housing Laws - August 7, 2023
Learn How to Protect Yourself from Housing Discrimination Under Fair Housing Law - August 14, 2023
What is Covered Under the Fair Housing Act and How Does it Affect Landlords? - August 21, 2023
Navigating the Complicated Rules and Regulations of Fair Housing Law - August 28, 2023