Understanding Familial Status Discrimination Rights in Ohio Rentals

In Ohio, renters are protected by federal and state laws from familial status discrimination. If you are renting a property and have children under 18 in your household—or are pregnant, adopting, or seeking legal custody—Ohio law ensures you have the right to rent housing without facing discrimination. This article helps Ohio renters understand their protections, how to recognize discrimination, and the practical steps to take if your rights are violated.

What Is Familial Status Discrimination?

Familial status discrimination means treating someone unfairly in housing because they live with children under 18, are pregnant, or are in the process of adopting or gaining legal custody of a child. Under the federal Fair Housing Act and the Ohio Revised Code Section 4112.02, it is illegal for landlords to:

• Deny you a lease because you have children or are expecting a child
• Set different rules, higher deposits, or higher rents due to children in the home
• Steer families with kids to specific units or floors only
• Impose stricter terms or exclude families from amenities (like pools or play areas)

Some exceptions exist, such as housing developments designated for senior citizens, but most rental properties must comply.

Your Rights as an Ohio Renter

You have the right to apply, rent, and live in most rental housing regardless of familial status. Landlords cannot refuse you or treat you differently because of children in your household. These protections apply to apartments, houses, condos, and mobile homes in Ohio.

If you believe your rights are being violated, you can take action by filing a complaint with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

How to File a Fair Housing Complaint in Ohio

The Ohio Civil Rights Commission is the state agency that handles housing discrimination complaints. Here’s what to do:

• Gather evidence: Save emails, messages, listing screenshots, and note any discriminatory statements.
• Complete the Discrimination Complaint Intake Questionnaire (Form CRC-1): This is required to begin the process.
  • Form name: Housing Discrimination Complaint Intake Questionnaire (no specific number)
    When to use: If you believe your landlord denied you housing, raised rent, or set different conditions because your household includes children.
    Where to find: Official OCRC Housing Intake Form.
    Example: If a landlord tells you they 'don’t rent to families with kids,’ fill out and submit this form to begin your case.
• Submit your complaint online, by mail, or in person to OCRC.
• You may also file a complaint with HUD if you prefer federal review.

Once you file, the commission will investigate. You may be asked for more details or to participate in mediation or a formal hearing.

Recognizing Signs of Discrimination

Landlords and managers sometimes use subtle tactics. Common warning signs include:

• Refusing to show you certain units
• Setting occupancy limits that unfairly exclude families
• Making statements like “kids are too noisy” or “we prefer couples only”
• Advertising units as “adult only” (unless in senior housing)

Relevant Ohio Legislation and Where to Get Help

Ohio enforces protections through the Ohio Revised Code Section 4112.02 – Unlawful discriminatory practices. The Ohio Civil Rights Commission is the main state agency supporting renters dealing with housing discrimination. You can also consult the Ohio Supreme Court’s landlord/tenant dispute resources and review your rights under the federal Fair Housing Act for further clarity.

FAQs: Familial Status Discrimination in Ohio Rentals

1. Can a landlord in Ohio refuse to rent to someone with children?
   No, Ohio law prohibits landlords from denying rentals based on familial status, including having children under 18 in your household.
2. Are "adults only" rental ads allowed in Ohio?
   "Adults only" ads are illegal except in certain housing for seniors. Otherwise, such ads are a form of familial status discrimination.
3. Does familial status protection apply to pregnant tenants?
   Yes. Protections apply to pregnant people or anyone seeking legal custody of a child, not just current parents.
4. What should I do if my landlord raises rent only for families with kids?
   Gather evidence and file a complaint with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission using their official intake form.
5. Is there a time limit to file a fair housing complaint in Ohio?
   Yes. Complaints must generally be filed within one year of the discriminatory act.

Key Takeaways for Ohio Renters

• Ohio law protects renters with children or those expecting or adopting from housing discrimination.
• The Ohio Civil Rights Commission is the official body for filing complaints and getting support.
• Gather evidence and act promptly if you believe your rights have been violated.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) – File a complaint, ask questions, or get guidance on housing discrimination.
• HUD – Fair Housing Discrimination Complaints – Federal option for filing complaints.
• Ohio Legal Help: Fair Housing – Plain-language guides on renter rights and housing issues.
• Ohio Supreme Court: Landlord/Tenant Dispute Resolution – Guidance on dispute options, mediation, and more.

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1. Ohio Revised Code Section 4112.02
2. OCRC Housing Intake Complaint Form
3. HUD - Familial Status
4. HUD - Fair Housing Complaint Process

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