Are landlords allowed to deny applications based on a tenant's age under Fair Housing Law?

Under Fair Housing Law, landlords in Washington are prohibited from denying applications based on a tenant’s age. However, this only applies to those who are 18 and older and is not applicable to minors. Federal law gives landlords the right to deny a rental application to any potential tenant who is under the age of 18. The Fair Housing Act (FHA) is an important law that has been in effect since 1968, and it protects a tenant’s right to fair housing. The FHA prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. While age is not specifically listed as a protected class, the FHA does state that “discriminatory practices based on age is prohibited when it has an adverse effect on a person who is 40 years of age or older.” In Washington, landlords are not allowed to discriminate against applicants due to their age as long as they are 18 and older. Age discrimination in housing can take many forms, including refusal to rent to people of a certain age, or setting different terms or conditions on the basis of age. Additionally, a landlord cannot attempt to “steer” a tenant of a certain age to a specific neighborhood, or advertise with age-based preferences. All tenants in Washington, regardless of their age, have the right to fair and just treatment while searching for housing. Landlords must adhere to the guidelines set forth by Fair Housing Law or risk penalties.

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Are landlords allowed to deny applications based on a tenant's age under Fair Housing Law?

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