What rights do tenants have when it comes to Fair Housing Law?

In Virginia, tenants have a variety of rights when it comes to Fair Housing Law. The Fair Housing Law in Virginia is designed to protect tenants from discrimination in housing due to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or handicap. Tenants have the right to choose a home of their liking without fear of being discriminated against. Landlords cannot refuse to rent to a person simply because of the person’s protected characteristics. Tenants also have the right to privacy in their dwelling and protection from any form of harassment by the landlord based on their protected characteristics. For example, a landlord cannot enter a tenant’s home without prior notification or consent, nor can they make any offensive comments or gestures towards the tenant. Tenants in Virginia also have the right to ask for reasonable accommodations. This means that a landlord cannot refuse to allow a tenant to make modifications to their home or have an animal if it is for a disability. Additionally, the landlord cannot charge an additional fee for the accommodations, as long as they are reasonable. Another important right that tenants have is the right to be free from harassment or illegal eviction. This means that a tenant cannot be forced to move out of a dwelling based on their protected characteristics. Landlords also cannot make threats or engage in other intimidating behavior to try to make a tenant move out. Overall, tenants in Virginia should be aware of their rights and responsibilities when it comes to Fair Housing Law. Thanks to this law, individuals have the protection they need to find and reside in a safe, comfortable, and fair place.

Related FAQs

Are there any protections for tenants who are victims of sexual harassment in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
How can landlords and sellers offer incentives to tenants in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to refuse to rent to people based on their gender identity under Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords required to provide reasonable accommodations to tenants with disabilities under Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to kick out tenants without notice in violation of Fair Housing Law?
How can a tenant report a violation of Fair Housing Law?
How long does it take to resolve a Fair Housing Law complaint?
Are there any restrictions on types of questions a landlord can ask tenants in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to deny rental applications based on a tenant’s criminal background in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords required to comply with state and local laws in addition to Fair Housing Law?

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