LGBTQ+ Renters' Rights and Fair Housing Protections in New Jersey

Understanding your rights as an LGBTQ+ renter is essential in New Jersey, where state law provides robust protections against housing discrimination. Within the state, landlords are legally prohibited from treating you unfairly because of your sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. This article outlines what these protections mean, how to recognize discrimination, and what to do if it happens to you. All information is based on current state and federal laws relevant to New Jersey residents.

What Are New Jersey’s Fair Housing Protections for LGBTQ+ Renters?

New Jersey law is among the nation’s strongest when it comes to protecting renters from discrimination. Both the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD) and the federal Fair Housing Act forbid housing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

• Landlords cannot: Refuse to rent, raise rent, or enforce different lease rules based on your actual or perceived LGBTQ+ status.
• Reject applications, harass, or evict you for being an LGBTQ+ individual or family.
• Deny housing-related services, advertisements, or amenities because you are LGBTQ+.

This means your rights are protected not just when signing a lease, but throughout your tenancy—including renewal and common-area access.

Which Laws Protect LGBTQ+ Renters in New Jersey?

• The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD) (N.J.S.A. 10:5-1 et seq.)
• The Federal Fair Housing Act

The New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) enforces these state protections and investigates complaints.

How to Recognize Housing Discrimination Based on LGBTQ+ Status

Discrimination can be obvious or subtle. Common examples faced by LGBTQ+ renters include:

• A landlord refuses to show or rent a unit after meeting you or learning you identify as LGBTQ+.
• You receive different treatment—such as stricter rules—based on your gender identity or relationship status.
• Offensive statements, harassment, or threats related to your sexual orientation or gender identity.

What To Do If You Experience Discrimination

New Jersey renters can formally report housing discrimination. Here’s how to get started:

• Write down details of each incident, including dates, names, and what was said or done.
• Gather copies of related documents (leases, texts, emails, ads, or policies).
• Consider contacting the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) for advice or to file an official complaint.

How to File a Complaint with DCR

You can file a complaint online, by mail, or in person. The best form for renters in these situations is usually the "Division on Civil Rights Complaint Form." DCR accepts complaints up to 180 days (about 6 months) from the last act of discrimination.

• DCR Online Complaint Portal
• DCR Complaint Intake Form (Downloadable PDF)

Once submitted, the DCR will contact you for further information, investigate your claim, and may offer mediation or other remedies for illegal discrimination.

Official Forms for Filing a Housing Discrimination Complaint

• Division on Civil Rights Complaint Intake Form
  Download the DCR Complaint Form (PDF)
  When to use: If you believe you were discriminated against by a landlord or property manager due to your LGBTQ+ status, fill out and return this form via the online portal, by mail, or deliver it in person. It asks for your contact info, details about the alleged discrimination, and supporting evidence.

For many renters, completing the online complaint portal is easiest. See the official DCR complaint guide for more information.

Enforcement and Legal Remedies

The New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) is the main state tribunal handling housing discrimination cases. If they find in your favor, remedies may include:

• Ordering the landlord to stop discriminatory behavior
• Financial compensation for proven losses or distress
• Requirement to rent or renew your tenancy if it was denied illegally

FAQ: LGBTQ+ Housing Rights in New Jersey

1. Can my landlord evict or refuse to rent to me for being LGBTQ+ in New Jersey?
   No. The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination and the federal Fair Housing Act protect LGBTQ+ individuals from eviction or denial of housing based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
2. What should I do if I hear offensive remarks or experience harassment from my landlord?
   Document each incident, keep a record of correspondence, and consider filing a complaint using the DCR's process.
3. How quickly do I need to act if I want to file a discrimination complaint?
   Complaints should be filed within 180 days from the last incident of discrimination.
4. Does my lease need to mention discrimination for these protections to apply?
   No. These protections apply by law—your lease or rental agreement does not have to include them for you to be protected.
5. Who investigates housing discrimination cases in New Jersey?
   The New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) is responsible for investigating and enforcing fair housing laws.

Summary: Key Takeaways for LGBTQ+ Renters in New Jersey

• LGBTQ+ renters in New Jersey are protected from discrimination by both state and federal law.
• If you experience discrimination, document it and contact the DCR within 180 days.
• Official complaint forms and more information are available through the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights.

Being informed empowers you to advocate for your rights and secure fair housing for yourself and your family.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) – File complaints, get information, and speak with an investigator.
• New Jersey Department of Community Affairs: Landlord-Tenant Information – General renter rights and contacts.
• DCR Complaint Intake Form (PDF)
• DCR Online Complaint Portal

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1. New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (N.J.S.A. 10:5-1 et seq.)
2. Federal Fair Housing Act
3. Official DCR Filing Instructions
4. NJ Department of Community Affairs: Landlord-Tenant Information

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