Arizona Renters’ Rights: Protection from Familial Status Discrimination

Facing discrimination because you have children or are expecting is not just unfair—it’s illegal under both federal and Arizona state law. Understanding your rights against familial status discrimination can help you take informed action if an issue arises. This guide explains your protections as a renter in Arizona, how to spot violations, and the steps you can take for help.

What Is Familial Status Discrimination in Arizona Rentals?

Familial status discrimination means treating renters differently or unfairly because they have children under 18, are pregnant, or are in the process of securing custody of a minor. It’s illegal for landlords in Arizona to:

• Refuse to rent or lease because you have kids or are pregnant
• Set different terms or conditions for families with children (like higher deposits or different rules)
• Steer families with kids to certain buildings, floors, or units
• Deny access to amenities (such as pools or play areas) because of children

These protections are outlined under the federal Fair Housing Act and the Arizona Fair Housing Act (A.R.S. § 41-1491 et seq.)[1][2].

How Arizona Law Protects Renters and Families

Arizona’s residential rental laws and fair housing agencies make it clear: landlords cannot treat you differently because of your family makeup. This includes protection during rental applications, lease renewals, and even eviction processes. The main official body handling tenant-landlord issues in Arizona is the Arizona Attorney General’s Civil Rights Division.

What Does Discrimination Look Like?

Examples of familial status discrimination might include:

• Advertisements stating “no children allowed” in rental listings
• A landlord refusing to rent a two-bedroom apartment to a single parent with two children, but renting it to two adults instead
• Being told that families with children must live on the ground floor

If you notice these behaviors, you may be facing unlawful discrimination.

Official Form: Arizona Fair Housing Complaint

• Form Name: Fair Housing Complaint Form
• When to Use: If you suspect discrimination—such as being denied housing, steered to certain units, or penalized for having children—you can file this form with the Arizona Attorney General’s Office.
• How to Use (Example): Suppose your application is denied after mentioning your children, and the landlord suggests the unit "isn't suitable for families." You would complete and submit the Arizona Fair Housing Complaint Form.

Where to Send the Fair Housing Complaint Form

Complaints can be submitted online, by mail, email, or by contacting the Civil Rights Division of the Arizona Attorney General’s Office.

How to File a Complaint: Step-by-Step

The Arizona Attorney General’s Office investigates complaints of housing discrimination. Here’s how you can take action:

• Document what happened: Keep all communications, ads, or denial letters.
• Complete the Fair Housing Complaint Form.
• Submit your complaint within one year of the incident.
• The Attorney General’s Civil Rights Division will review and, if necessary, investigate or provide mediation.

Relevant Arizona Tenancy Legislation

Your tenant rights—including protections from familial status discrimination—are found in the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (A.R.S. Title 33, Chapter 10)[3], in addition to the Arizona Fair Housing Act. Both pieces of legislation protect renters statewide.

FAQ: Familial Status & Rental Discrimination in Arizona

1. Is it legal for a landlord to advertise “no children allowed” in Arizona?
   No. Arizona law prohibits landlords from refusing to rent to families with children or advertising “no children.” Such actions are considered familial status discrimination.
2. Can a landlord set different rules or higher deposits for families with kids?
   No. Landlords must apply the same rules, conditions, and deposit amounts to all renters, regardless of family status.
3. How long do I have to file a familial status discrimination complaint in Arizona?
   You have up to one year from the incident to file a complaint with the Arizona Attorney General’s Office.
4. Who handles tenant complaints about discrimination in Arizona?
   The Civil Rights Division of the Arizona Attorney General’s Office is responsible for investigating fair housing complaints.
5. Will filing a complaint affect my ability to rent in the future?
   It is unlawful for landlords to retaliate against you for asserting your rights. If you believe you are being treated unfairly after filing a complaint, contact the state Civil Rights Division for further help.

Key Takeaways for Arizona Renters

• Arizona law protects renters from discrimination based on having children or being pregnant.
• Landlords cannot set different terms, deny amenities, or refuse housing because of your family status.
• If you believe your rights have been violated, you can quickly file a complaint with the Arizona Attorney General’s Civil Rights Division.

Knowing your rights can help you respond confidently if you face discrimination and ensure you and your family receive fair treatment.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arizona Attorney General’s Civil Rights Division – Fair Housing (Official complaints, laws, and resources)
• Arizona Department of Housing (Statewide housing programs and information)
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: File a Housing Discrimination Complaint
• Arizona Judicial Branch - Self-Service Center (Tenant-Landlord Forms)

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1. Fair Housing Act, U.S. Department of Justice, federal fair housing law.
2. Arizona Fair Housing Act, A.R.S. § 41-1491 et seq.
3. Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, A.R.S. Title 33, Chapter 10.

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