Are landlords allowed to deny housing to victims of domestic violence under Fair Housing Law?

In Washington, landlords are not allowed to deny housing to victims of domestic violence under Fair Housing Law. The Washington State Human Rights Commission determined that state and federal housing laws, which include the federal Fair Housing Act and Washington’s Law Against Discrimination, provide protection against discrimination based on domestic violence victim status. The Washington State Human Rights Commission (WSHRC) clarified in a formal complaint determination that “domestic violence survivor” is a protected class under the federal Fair Housing Act and Washington’s Law Against Discrimination. This means that rental housing cannot be denied to victims of domestic violence. Landlords are prohibited from asking about an applicant’s status as a victim of domestic violence either verbally or on a rental application. Furthermore, landlords are not permitted to take any action that would make living in their rental unit more difficult for a domestic violence survivor. This includes refusing to provide tenant protections to a domestic violence survivor, such as changing the locks or providing additional security. In the event that a landlord does deny housing to a domestic violence survivor, they may be in violation of Fair Housing Law. Victims of domestic violence are encouraged to report any such discriminatory activity to the WSHRC, where they can file a formal complaint against the landlord.

Related FAQs

What are the specific requirements for advertising under Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to select tenants based on income 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?
Do rental applicants have to meet certain criteria under Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to require tenants to submit to a credit check in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Are there any restrictions on the types of documents landlords are allowed to request from tenants under Fair Housing Law?
Are there any penalties for landlords who violate Fair Housing Law?
What is a “reasonable accommodation” under Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords required to post a notice of non-discrimination in accordance with Fair Housing Law?

Are landlords allowed to deny housing to victims of domestic violence under Fair Housing Law?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts