Illegal Rental Advertisement Language in North Dakota: A Renter's Guide

If you're a renter searching for housing in North Dakota, it's important to know your rights when it comes to rental advertisements. Both federal and state laws prohibit landlords and property managers from using language in ads that discriminates based on protected characteristics. This guide explains what phrases or words are illegal in North Dakota rental advertising and what you can do if you see discrimination.

Understanding Discriminatory Rental Advertising

Rental advertising refers to any communication—online posts, print ads, flyers, or signs—offering a residence for rent. In North Dakota, like everywhere in the U.S., ads for rental housing must follow the Fair Housing Act and state laws, which protect people from discrimination.

Protected Classes in North Dakota

Under federal law, it's illegal for housing ads to express preference or limitation based on:

• Race or color
• National origin
• Religion
• Sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation)
• Familial status (like having children under 18)
• Disability

North Dakota state law adds further protection, making it illegal to discriminate based on:

• Age
• Marital status
• Public assistance status

For detailed protections, review North Dakota Human Rights Division Housing Resources.

Examples of Illegal Language in Rental Ads

Advertising cannot directly or indirectly tell someone they are not welcome because of a protected characteristic. Here are some examples of illegal phrases under state and federal law:

• "No children" or "adults only" (Familial status)
• "Christian home" or "No Muslims" (Religion)
• "Ideal for single women" or specifying sex/gender unless a shared living situation allows it under law
• "No Section 8" (Prohibited if this means excluding people with public assistance)
• "English speakers only" (National origin)

Even indirect phrases, images, or symbols suggesting a preference or limitation—like only showing people of one race in photos—can be illegal.
If you encounter an advertisement you feel violates these rules, you have the right to take action.

What Forms and Agencies Handle Complaints?

North Dakota renters can report discriminatory housing ads to the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights' Human Rights Division, the official body that investigates these issues. They handle all complaints regarding rental discrimination under state law (North Dakota Century Code Chapter 14-02.4).

Official Discrimination Complaint Form

• Form Name: Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
• Form Number: None officially listed
• Use: File this form if you believe a rental advertisement or a landlord has discriminated against you.
• How to Use: Fill out the form with your contact information, a description and copy/photo of the advertisement, and details about why you believe it’s discriminatory.
• Find the form here: ND Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (PDF)

After submitting, the Human Rights Division may contact you for further information and begin an investigation. For full instructions, visit the official complaint filing instructions.

What Happens After You File a Complaint?

The Human Rights Division will review your case and, if they find enough evidence, may help mediate or take legal action against the landlord or property manager. They may also refer some complaints to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) if federal laws apply.
This process aims to stop discriminatory advertising and hold violators accountable.

Your Rights and Next Steps

Discriminatory ads are not just unfair—they are illegal. If you feel unfairly excluded by the language in a rental advertisement, know that the law is on your side in North Dakota. Document everything, use the proper complaint form, and reach out to state agencies for free assistance.

FAQ: North Dakota Rental Ad Discrimination

1. What phrases are illegal in North Dakota rental ads?
   Phrases that discriminate against protected groups—like "no children," "women only," or "no Section 8"—are generally illegal in North Dakota rental advertisements.
2. Who handles renter discrimination complaints in North Dakota?
   The North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights' Human Rights Division is the official agency responsible for investigating housing discrimination complaints.
3. Can a landlord say "no pets" in North Dakota?
   Yes, unless the "pet" is a service animal for a person with a disability. Denying service animals may be considered illegal discrimination under fair housing laws.
4. How do I report a discriminatory rental ad?
   Complete the Housing Discrimination Complaint Form and submit it to the North Dakota Human Rights Division with evidence of the advertisement.
5. Is it illegal to post an ad stating "English speakers only"?
   Yes. This can be considered national origin discrimination under both North Dakota and federal fair housing laws.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for North Dakota Renters

• Rental ads must not exclude or favor anyone based on protected characteristics like race, gender, family status, or disability.
• The North Dakota Human Rights Division is your main resource for addressing discrimination.
• Use official complaint forms and keep records when reporting suspected illegal ads.

Knowing what language is illegal in North Dakota rental ads helps protect yourself and others. When ads violate fair housing laws, renters should take action for a fair and equal housing market.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• ND Department of Labor and Human Rights: Human Rights Division – Official agency for filing housing discrimination complaints
• Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
• North Dakota Fair Housing Act (ND Century Code Chapter 14-02.4)
• U.S. HUD: File a Federal Fair Housing Complaint

---

1. North Dakota Fair Housing Act: ND Century Code 14-02.4
2. Human Rights Complaint Process: ND Human Rights Division
3. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): Federal Fair Housing Act

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations