Are landlords allowed to require a minimum credit score in accordance with Fair Housing Law?

In North Carolina, it is not permissible to require a minimum credit score for tenants under Fair Housing Laws. This is because using a credit score in tenant screening can be interpreted as discriminatory. The Fair Housing Act is a law that prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, and disability. Creditors and landlords who use credit scores and other criteria for tenant screening must have a valid business reason for doing so and be sure not to violate any of the protected classes stated in the Fair Housing Act. This means that credit scores should not be used as a decision-making tool for potential tenants. Credit scores do not provide an accurate assessment of a person’s character, only an indication of their payment history. Therefore, a landlord must consider other criteria such as references and income in making leasing decisions in order to comply with the Fair Housing Act. In conclusion, landlords are not allowed to require a minimum credit score under the Fair Housing Law in North Carolina as it could be interpreted as discrimination. Landlords should use criteria such as income, rental history, and references when making decisions about potential tenants.

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Are landlords allowed to require a minimum credit score in accordance with Fair Housing Law?

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