Illegal Rental Advertising Language in Pennsylvania: What You Need to Know

Finding a rental home in Pennsylvania should be a fair process for everyone. Both renters and landlords must follow laws that ensure no one is treated unfairly. If you see a rental advertisement that seems discriminatory, or you're unsure what's allowed, understanding what language is illegal in rental ads is your first step to protecting your rights.

Understanding Fair Housing Laws in Pennsylvania

Federal and state laws protect renters from discrimination in housing. In Pennsylvania, it's illegal to use language in rental advertisements that shows bias or preference based on certain protected characteristics. This applies to print, online, and any other form of advertising.

Protected Classes Under the Law

According to the federal Fair Housing Act and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act, landlords or agents cannot discriminate based on:

• Race or color
• National origin
• Religion
• Sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation)
• Familial status (including children under 18)
• Disability
• Age
• Ancestry
• Use, handling, or training of a guide or support animal for disability

If you see a rental ad that mentions any of these characteristics in a way that suggests preference or limitation, it could be illegal.

Examples of Illegal Language in Rental Listings

Advertising that hints at a preference or restriction related to a protected characteristic is not permitted. Some common examples of illegal language in Pennsylvania include:

• "No children," "Adults only," or "Ideal for single professionals"
• "Christian home," "No Muslims," or stating preference for/against any religion
• "No wheelchairs," "Able-bodied tenants only," or any limits on disability or service animals
• "White tenants only," "No immigrants," or otherwise stating a race or nationality preference
• "Females only" or "Male tenant preferred" (unless sharing with a live-in roommate in certain owner-occupied situations)

Neutral phrases about the property’s features (such as "two-bedroom," "second-floor unit") are allowed, but targeted language about people is not.

What Is Permitted?

Landlords are allowed to describe the property’s amenities, rental price, or objective features—and to require background or credit checks. They cannot, however, select tenants based on the protected classes above.

Reporting Discriminatory Rental Ads

If you encounter a rental advertisement in Pennsylvania that uses illegal language, you have the right to take action. The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) is the official agency that investigates housing discrimination in the state. You may also have federal reporting options through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

• Gather evidence of the advertisement (take screenshots or save printed copies)
• Note the date, location, and details of the ad and property
• File a complaint with the PHRC or HUD

Relevant Official Forms

• Housing Discrimination Questionnaire (PHRC): This is the first step to begin your complaint. Submit it if you believe an ad or landlord has violated your rights.
  Practical example: If you see a newspaper ad stating "No families with kids," you would fill out this questionnaire to officially report it.
  Download the Housing Discrimination Questionnaire (PHRC)
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form 903: Use this federal form if you wish to file through HUD within one year of the incident.
  Practical example: If you see an online listing that says "Christians only," you may also file directly with HUD.
  Download HUD Form 903

When you file, include all information and documentation. Both PHRC and HUD will investigate your claim and provide guidance on next steps.

If you ever feel unsure whether a rental ad is discriminatory, trust your instincts, save a copy, and reach out to official agencies for guidance.

Relevant Tribunal and Legislation in Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) is responsible for enforcing state fair housing laws. The key legislation is the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA).
You can read about the PHRC housing discrimination complaint process for further details.

FAQ: Rental Advertising and Discrimination in Pennsylvania

1. What should I do if I see a discriminatory rental ad?
   Gather evidence of the ad and file a complaint with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) or HUD. Both offer official forms and will guide you through the next steps.
2. Is it legal for landlords to say "No pets" in Pennsylvania?
   Generally, "No pets" is allowed. However, landlords cannot refuse service or support animals for tenants with disabilities, as protected by fair housing laws.
3. What phrases are always illegal in a Pennsylvania rental ad?
   Any language indicating preference or limitation based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, familial status, age, or ancestry is illegal—such as "No children" or "Whites only."
4. Can a landlord advertise “adults only” for an apartment?
   In most cases, no. “Adults only” excludes families with children, which is a protected class under both federal and state law.
5. Where can I get more information about my rights as a renter?
   Visit the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission or the HUD Fair Housing page.

Key Takeaways for Pennsylvania Renters

• Discriminatory language in rental ads is illegal under state and federal law.
• If you spot or experience unfair advertising, gather evidence and report it promptly.
• The PHRC and HUD are available to assist Pennsylvania renters with complaints and guidance.

Knowing your rights helps ensure you and others experience a fair housing market in Pennsylvania.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) – Main portal for filing housing discrimination complaints, forms, and contact information.
• HUD Fair Housing Portal – Federal information and complaint process.
• PHRC Housing Discrimination Questionnaire
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form 903
• PHRC Guide to Housing Discrimination

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1. Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA)
2. Federal Fair Housing Act
3. PHRC Housing Discrimination Questionnaire
4. HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form 903
5. PHRC Housing Discrimination Information

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