Are landlords allowed to deny rental applications based on a tenant’s criminal background in accordance with Fair Housing Law?

In accordance with Fair Housing Law, landlords in Virginia are not allowed to deny rental applications based on a tenant’s criminal background. Under this law, landlords must consider each applicant’s individual circumstances when making decisions about housing. The Virginia Fair Housing Law, the Virginia Fair Housing Board, and the Virginia Fair Housing Office are all dedicated to reducing discrimination or bias in housing based on the tenant’s race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, religion, age, disability, marital status, or familial status. This means that while a tenant may have a criminal background, if it does not interfere with their ability to be a good tenant, they are allowed to rent. To that end, landlords in Virginia must take into account the age of the tenant’s offense and the relevance of the conviction to the tenant’s current behavior. In addition, they are also legally required to provide an explanation to the tenant if their application was denied due to their criminal background. By enforcing Fair Housing Law, Virginia is dedicated to creating fair and equitable housing for all tenants, regardless of their background. This ensures that everyone has access to safe and affordable housing and is treated fairly.

Related FAQs

What specific actions can be taken by a landlord to comply with Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to require tenants to pay a security deposit 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 there any exceptions to Fair Housing Law for existing tenants?
Are landlords allowed to deny rental applications based on a tenant’s criminal background in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Are there any forms or documents required for filing a Fair Housing Law complaint?
What kind of evidence is required for a Fair Housing Law complaint?
Are landlords allowed to require prospective tenants to provide references under Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to discriminate against tenants based on their marital status under Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to refuse to rent to people with disabilities in violation of Fair Housing Law?

Are landlords allowed to deny rental applications based on a tenant’s criminal background in accordance with Fair Housing Law?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts