Can a landlord discriminate against a potential tenant based on their source of income under Fair Housing Law?

Under Fair Housing Law in Washington, landlords cannot discriminate against potential tenants based on their source of income. This applies to both public and private housing, such as homes and apartments. It is illegal for a landlord to discriminate against a potential tenant due to their source of income, even if the source of income comes from a government program. This includes public assistance programs, disability benefits, and Social Security income. A landlord cannot refuse to rent to someone based solely on the fact that they receive their income from such a source. Rental applicants should also be aware that landlords are not allowed to require additional proof or documentation beyond what is necessary to show a stable source of income. Landlords must treat all rental applicants the same, regardless of their source of income. This means that landlords cannot treat rental applicants differently based on the source of their income, or offer more favorable rental terms to someone because of the source of their income. It is also important to note that tenants have the right to challenge landlords who they feel are discriminating based on their source of income. Tenants should reach out to the Washington State Human Rights Commission (HRC) if they feel they have been discriminated against due to their source of income. In summary, landlords in Washington cannot discriminate against potential tenants based on their source of income under Fair Housing Law. Tenants have the right to challenge landlords that may be doing so, and should contact the HRC for assistance.

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Can a landlord discriminate against a potential tenant based on their source of income under Fair Housing Law?

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