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Renting a House or Apartment
Once you find a place you would like to live in and rent the dwelling, the landlord will most likely review the amount and stability of your income, look at your credit report, and talk to your current and former landlords. The landlord wants to make sure you have enough income to pay the rent, a history of paying your bills, and that you have been a good tenant in the past. It is legal for a landlord to require that you meet a certain income standard as long as the standard is applied to everyone equally.
Signs of Possible Discrimination:
Your phone calls are not returned.
The landlord says that they don't rent to kids or people on welfare, or that they are uncomfortable with a disabled person.
The landlord tells you that the unit is rented but you continue to see it advertised.
The landlord says they allow fewer than 3 persons in a one bedroom, less than 5 persons in a 2 bedroom or less than 7 persons in a 3 bedroom dwelling.
The landlord will not give you an application.
The rent or deposit is higher than advertised.
The landlord discourages you from renting.
Rules for children are unreasonable and discourage families from renting.
Rules are enforced with some tenants and not with others.
You receive an eviction notice for no apparent reason.
What To Do If You Believe You Have Been Discriminated Against
If you feel you have been treated differently because of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, disability or because of children, then you should start with the following actions:
Write down the name and title of the persons whom you spoke with. Note the dates and times of all conversations and what you were asked and told in each conversation.
Call Sentinel Fair Housing at 510.836.2687. A counselor will review your case with you and investigate your claim. You will also receive counseling on your rights under the law and on your options for mediation or legal action.
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