Illegal Rental Advertising Language in North Carolina

Finding fair and nondiscriminatory housing in North Carolina is your right as a renter. Understanding what landlords can — and cannot — say in rental ads helps prevent discrimination before you ever visit a property. State and federal laws make certain language illegal in rental advertising, protecting people from unfair treatment based on protected characteristics.

What Makes Rental Advertising Language Illegal?

Rental listings cannot say anything that discriminates, or appears to discriminate, against people based on protected characteristics under the federal Fair Housing Act and the North Carolina Fair Housing Act¹. This applies to print ads, online listings, flyers, and word-of-mouth.

• Race or color
• National origin
• Religion
• Sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation)
• Familial status (families with children under 18 or pregnant people)
• Disability

It’s illegal for a landlord or agent to publish words or images in rental ads that show preference, limitation, or discrimination — even if unintentionally — related to any of the above characteristics.

Examples of Illegal vs. Legal Language in Rental Ads

Recognizing problem language in advertisements is key:

Examples of Illegal Advertising Language

• "No children," "adults only," or "ideal for singles"
• "Christian neighborhood," or "prefer Christian tenant"
• "No wheelchairs" or "must be able-bodied"
• "No Hispanics" or "English only"
• "Perfect for married couples only"

Examples of Legal Language

• "No smoking" (Not tied to protected status)
• "No pets" (With exceptions for service animals)
• "Credit check required"
• "Quiet building"

You can find more details on problematic words and phrases on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) site.

How North Carolina Enforces Fair Rental Advertising

The North Carolina Human Relations Commission is the main tribunal enforcing fair housing laws in residential rentals. They handle complaints and ensure landlords and property managers follow nondiscriminatory advertising standards. Learn more or submit a complaint at the NC Human Relations Commission website².

What to Do If You Spot Illegal Language

If you see a rental listing in North Carolina that appears to discriminate (for example, "No kids" or "Seeking single professionals only"), you have the right to report it.

• Gather a copy or screenshot of the ad
• Note when and where you found it
• File a complaint using the NC Fair Housing Complaint Form

Official Form: NC Fair Housing Complaint Form

• Form Name: Fair Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
• When & How Used: Renters use this form when they believe a landlord or housing provider has discriminated or used illegal advertising language. For example, if you discover an online rental ad in Charlotte saying "no families with children," you can fill out this form to start an investigation.
• Download the NC Fair Housing Complaint Form (PDF)

Submit the completed form online or by mail, following the instructions provided on the official NC Human Relations Commission website.

Relevant North Carolina Tenancy Law

Discrimination and illegal advertising language in rentals are covered under the North Carolina Fair Housing Act Article 3 and Title VIII of the federal Fair Housing Act. These laws ensure all renters have a fair shot at housing by making discriminatory ads unlawful.

FAQ: Illegal Rental Advertising Language in North Carolina

1. What should I do if I see a rental listing that says "adults only"?
   This suggests discrimination based on familial status and is likely illegal. Collect evidence of the ad and file a complaint with the North Carolina Human Relations Commission.
2. Can landlords legally say "no pets" in North Carolina rental ads?
   Yes, but landlords must make exceptions for legitimate service animals or emotional support animals as required by law.
3. Does fair housing law protect against LGBTQ+ discrimination in rental advertising?
   Yes — both federal rules and North Carolina law prohibit discrimination, including against sexual orientation and gender identity, in rental ads.
4. Who do I contact if I think I’ve been discriminated against due to a rental ad?
   You should contact the North Carolina Human Relations Commission. Submit a complaint using their Fair Housing Complaint Form along with any evidence.
5. Does the law cover online and social media rental ads?
   Yes. Fair housing rules apply to all forms of advertising, including print, online listings, and social media posts.

Key Takeaways

• Discriminatory language in rental advertisements is illegal in North Carolina.
• Protected characteristics include race, religion, national origin, sex, disability, and family status.
• If you see or experience discrimination, you can file a complaint with the North Carolina Human Relations Commission using their official form.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Carolina Human Relations Commission – Enforcement of fair housing laws and complaint process.
• NC Fair Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (PDF) – For reporting housing discrimination.
• HUD Fair Housing Rights & Responsibilities – Federal resources and protections.
• Legal Aid of North Carolina: Fair Housing Help – Free legal support for renters facing discrimination.

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1. North Carolina Fair Housing Act Article 3
2. North Carolina Human Relations Commission – Fair Housing Tribunal

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