Is Source of Income Discrimination Illegal for Renters in DC?

Wondering if landlords in the District of Columbia can refuse to rent to you based on your source of income—like vouchers or public assistance? In DC, fair housing laws offer strong protections for renters. This article explains what source of income discrimination is, what laws protect you, and how to take action if your rights are violated.

What Is Source of Income Discrimination?

Source of income discrimination occurs when a landlord treats a renter differently or denies housing because of how they pay their rent. This can include:

• Refusing applicants who use Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)
• Denying renters with Social Security Disability Income (SSDI), public assistance, or other non-employment income
• Imposing different rental terms due to the use of assistance programs

For many renters, these protections make DC one of the most tenant-friendly jurisdictions in the United States.

Are DC Renters Protected Against Source of Income Discrimination?

Yes, the District of Columbia Human Rights Act (DCHRA) bans discrimination based on source of income. Landlords and property managers cannot refuse to rent or impose different terms because you pay rent using vouchers, government benefits, child support, or other legal sources.

• This applies to all forms of legal income except for illegal activity.
• Landlords may still check your ability to pay, but must treat all legal forms of income equally.

Housing providers must comply with these protections in all parts of DC.

Filing a Discrimination Complaint

If you believe a landlord has treated you unfairly due to your source of income, you have the right to file a fair housing complaint. In DC, this is handled by the DC Office of Human Rights (OHR), which enforces these protections for renters.

Official Complaint Form

• Form Name: Intake Questionnaire – Housing Discrimination (OHR Form)
• When to Use: If you experience or suspect housing discrimination in DC, including denial of rental based on your income source, submit this form within one year of the incident.
• How to Submit: Download from the OHR File a Discrimination Complaint page, fill it out, and submit it by email, fax, mail, or in person. OHR will review and, if accepted, begin a formal investigation.
• Official link: Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire (PDF)

After you submit, the Office of Human Rights may attempt mediation or investigate. You may be instructed to provide additional information if needed during the process.

Relevant Tribunal: The DC Office of Human Rights (OHR)

The DC Office of Human Rights oversees housing discrimination claims and ensures landlords follow DC's fair housing laws. It is your main contact for filing and resolving source of income discrimination cases.

Key Laws Protecting Renters

• DC Human Rights Act, D.C. Code § 2-1402.21 (prohibits discrimination in housing)
• Rental Housing Act of 1985

These laws outline your right to equal treatment as a renter, regardless of your legal source of rent payments.

How to File a Complaint for Source of Income Discrimination

If you suspect source of income discrimination, follow these steps:

• Gather emails, letters, applications, or any records from the landlord about the incident.
• Download and complete the Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire.
• Submit the form to the Office of Human Rights by email, mail, or in person.
• Cooperate with their investigation, providing all requested details.
• Consider seeking mediation or legal advice if needed.

Timely action and detailed documentation help ensure your protections are enforced.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is source of income discrimination illegal for all types of rental properties in DC?
   Yes, source of income discrimination is banned for almost all rental properties in DC. Certain limited exceptions may apply (such as small owner-occupied buildings), so check with the DC Office of Human Rights for guidance.
2. Can my landlord refuse my Section 8 voucher as payment?
   No, landlords must accept Housing Choice (Section 8) Vouchers and cannot refuse to rent solely because you use a voucher.
3. How long do I have to file a complaint?
   You generally must file your complaint within one year of experiencing discrimination in DC.
4. What evidence should I collect before submitting a complaint?
   Save all communications with the landlord (emails, texts, letters) and any application materials indicating a denial based on income source.
5. Are there free advocacy services for renters in DC?
   Yes, organizations like the Office of the Tenant Advocate and the DC Office of Human Rights offer information, guidance, and sometimes legal assistance for renters facing discrimination.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• DC Office of Human Rights: File housing discrimination complaints and obtain legal information.
• DC Office of the Tenant Advocate: Assistance with renter rights, resources, and advocacy.
• DC Department of Housing and Community Development: Additional support, affordable housing options, and rental programs.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) - Fair Housing: Federal oversight and complaint information.

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1. District of Columbia Human Rights Act (D.C. Code § 2-1402.21)
2. File a Discrimination Complaint - DC Office of Human Rights
3. Rental Housing Act of 1985
4. Office of the Tenant Advocate

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