Oregon Senior Housing Rights: Laws and Protections Explained

Special Housing Types & Situations Oregon published June 21, 2025 Flag of Oregon

Oregon offers special legal protections for seniors renting their homes, ensuring fair treatment and support in age-restricted and standard residential housing. Whether renting in a 55+ community or an all-ages property, understanding the key rights and protections available under Oregon law can help you navigate rental issues such as discrimination, rent increases, and eviction. This guide explains senior housing protections, covers relevant legislation, and highlights practical steps and official resources tailored for older tenants in Oregon.

What is Senior Housing in Oregon?

Senior housing refers to residential communities or apartments specifically reserved for older adults—often age 55 and older—or settings offering supportive services for seniors. This can include 55+ communities, assisted living, and certain public housing programs.

  • Age-restricted housing: Typically for residents 55+ or 62+ years old (in compliance with federal and state laws).
  • Subsidized senior housing: Housing supported by government programs, administered through agencies like the Oregon Housing and Community Services.
  • Standard rentals: All-ages properties protected by Oregon’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Key Senior Housing Protections Under Oregon Law

Senior renters in Oregon benefit from both state and federal protections designed to safeguard their tenancy rights and prevent age-related discrimination.

1. Protection from Age Discrimination

Under the Oregon Fair Housing Act and the federal Fair Housing Act, landlords cannot discriminate against a tenant because of their age (within applicable age-restricted housing rules), disability, race, or other protected classes.[1]

  • Senior housing communities may have lawful minimum age requirements (e.g., at least one resident 55 or older), but cannot exclude eligible seniors or families unless clearly designated by law.
  • It is illegal for landlords to refuse a rental or treat tenants differently solely because of age, except as allowed in specified senior housing.

2. Protection Against Unlawful Eviction and Rent Increases

Senior renters have rights under the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90):

  • Landlords must provide written notice of rent increases—generally at least 90 days prior, except in specified cases.[2]
  • Evictions require proper process and valid grounds. Lockouts or utility shutoffs without a court order are illegal.
  • Special protections may apply if the housing is federally subsidized or subject to local ordinances (such as additional notice periods for seniors or low-income residents).
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3. Reasonable Accommodations for Disability or Health

Seniors can request reasonable accommodations for disabilities (such as service animals, grab bars, or parking changes) under both state and federal fair housing laws.

If you need an accommodation due to age-related health needs or disability, make your request in writing and keep a copy for your records.

How to Respond to Discrimination or Unlawful Eviction

If you believe you have faced discrimination or have received an unlawful notice, Oregon provides official complaint processes:

Official Forms for Senior Renters

  • Oregon Discrimination Complaint Form
    When to use: If you believe you have been denied housing or treated unequally because of age or disability.
    Example: A 62-year-old renter is refused an apartment despite meeting all qualifications.
    File a Discrimination Complaint (Oregon BOLI)
  • Summons and Complaint for Eviction (FED—Forcible Entry and Detainer)
    When to use: To respond to or file against an eviction action in court.
    Example: A senior receives an eviction notice and wants to present their case.
    Eviction Summons & Complaint (Form)
  • Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter (no state form, recommended template)
    When to use: To formally request changes or exceptions due to age or disability.
    Example: A renter needs grab bars installed for safety due to mobility issues.
    Reasonable Accommodation Info (OHCS)

The Oregon Judicial Department oversees residential tenancy matters and handles eviction cases in its courts. For official information or to access forms, visit the Oregon Landlord-Tenant Court Services.

FAQ: Oregon Senior Housing Protections

  1. Can a landlord deny me rental because of my age if I am over 55?
    Generally, landlords cannot deny you housing just because of age, except in qualified age-restricted communities. Outside these, refusing to rent due to age is illegal discrimination.
  2. What notice does my landlord need to give for a rent increase?
    In most cases, Oregon landlords must provide at least 90 days' written notice before raising the rent for month-to-month tenants.
  3. Are there extra protections for seniors during eviction in Oregon?
    No specific statewide rules just for seniors, but all tenants are entitled to due process. Seniors in subsidized or public housing may have additional notice requirements or protections.
  4. How can I request an accommodation for my age or health needs?
    Submit a written request to your landlord describing what you need (example: grab bars, service animal). Keep a copy and, if denied, contact Oregon BOLI for help.
  5. Who can I turn to if I feel I’m facing housing discrimination?
    File a complaint with the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries or reach out to legal aid providers for assistance.

Key Takeaways for Senior Renters in Oregon

  • Oregon law protects seniors from age discrimination and guarantees due process for rent increases and evictions.
  • Written notice is always required for rent increases and most evictions; documentation is key.
  • If you need disability or age-related accommodations, make written requests and know where to get official support.

Staying informed and using official channels can help you assert your rights and resolve rental issues confidently.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. Oregon Fair Housing Act: Anti-discrimination housing protections
  2. Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90): Full tenancy legislation text
  3. Fair Housing Assistance: HUD File a Complaint

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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