Illegal Tenant Discrimination

By E-Renter Tenant Screening
Posted on December 5, 2006 under Landlord Tenant Lawsuits | icon: commentBe the First to Comment

There are state laws that ensure landlords do not discriminate against tenants when renting out their property. Therefore, as a landlord it behoves you to follow the state’s fair housing laws that specify, it is illegal to refuse to rent to a tenant, or reject an applicant on the basis of his / her race, religion, ethnic background, sex, or even because the applicant comes with children or a disability. As well, there are some state and local laws that prohibit discrimination on the ground’s of a person’s age, marital status or sexual orientation.

A landlord can freely choose from amongst prospective tenants, so long as his / her decision complies with fair housing laws and choice of tenant is based on legitimate business criteria. For example, it is perfectly legal for a landlord to reject someone who carries a poor credit history, is the recipient of insufficient income, and therefore, may not be able to pay the rental amount asked by you. Or, if past behaviour, such as, damaging property, etc., which no doubt, makes the individual a bad risk. Another, legal basis for refusing tenants is the valid occupancy policy that limits people count per rental unit, and is clearly tied to reasons of health and safety.

Landlords must keep in mind that selection standards, such as minimum income and good credit report are applied equally to all tenants.

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