Rhode Island Fair Housing: Protected Classes Explained

Rhode Island renters are protected from housing discrimination under both state and federal law. Knowing your rights as a tenant is important for a fair renting experience. This article explains which groups are protected, what counts as discrimination, and the steps to take if you need to file a complaint with Rhode Island's official housing authority.

Who Is Protected by Rhode Island Fair Housing Laws?

The Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act and federal law prohibit landlords from discriminating against renters or applicants based on specific characteristics—these are called "protected classes." In Rhode Island, the following groups are protected:

• Race
• Color
• National Origin
• Religion
• Sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation)
• Disability (physical or mental)
• Familial Status (including having children under 18 or being pregnant)
• Age
• Marital Status
• Military Status
• Source of Income, including Housing Choice (Section 8) Vouchers

This means landlords, property managers, and housing providers cannot refuse to rent, offer different terms, or harass anyone based on these characteristics.

Examples of Illegal Housing Discrimination

Discrimination can be obvious or hidden. Here are examples of behavior that may be illegal under Rhode Island fair housing law:

• Refusing to rent to someone because they use a Section 8 voucher
• Charging a higher security deposit because an applicant is from another country
• Denying a reasonable accommodation for a renter who uses a wheelchair
• Advertising with phrases like "no children" or "adults only"

What to Do If You Experience Housing Discrimination

If you believe you have experienced housing discrimination based on a protected class, Rhode Island has a formal complaint process through the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights.

How to File a Fair Housing Complaint in Rhode Island

The official body responsible for handling residential housing discrimination complaints is the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights (RICHR). Here’s how you can take action:

• Document the incident(s): Write down dates, names, locations, and what happened.
• Gather evidence: Save emails, texts, voicemails, advertisements, or notices.
• Contact RICHR promptly: Complaints usually must be filed within one year of the alleged incident.

Rhode Island Fair Housing Complaint Form

• Form Name: Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire
• When & How Used: Use this form to provide details about your discrimination complaint. RICHR uses it to begin their investigation. For example, if your landlord refuses your rental application because you have a service animal, you can fill out the questionnaire as the first step.
• Access the official intake form and instructions here.

If you need assistance completing the complaint form, RICHR staff can provide guidance by phone or in person.

The main legislation protecting Rhode Island renters is the Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act. For additional tenant rights, see the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

The Importance of Protected Classes

Understanding protected classes helps renters recognize their rights and take effective action if necessary. Landlords also benefit by staying compliant with fair housing laws. If you’re unsure whether you’re facing discrimination, don't hesitate to seek help.

FAQs About Protected Classes and Fair Housing in Rhode Island

1. What should I do if my landlord rejects my application because I have a Section 8 voucher?
   Rhode Island law prohibits discrimination against renters based on source of income, including housing vouchers. You can file a complaint with RICHR.
2. Are emotional support animals protected by fair housing laws in Rhode Island?
   Yes, disabilities (which may include the need for a service or support animal) are a protected class. Landlords are required to consider reasonable accommodation requests.
3. Can my landlord refuse to rent to me because of my marital status?
   No. Marital status is included as a protected class in Rhode Island, so landlords cannot reject applicants based on whether they are single, married, or divorced.
4. How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint?
   Generally, complaints must be filed with RICHR within one year of the alleged act of discrimination.
5. Who enforces fair housing laws for renters in Rhode Island?
   The Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights is responsible for receiving and investigating housing discrimination complaints in the state.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Rhode Island law protects renters from discrimination based on a wide range of characteristics.
• If you experience possible discrimination, document the incident and file a complaint with RICHR.
• Use official forms and resources to ensure your complaint is properly handled.

Keen awareness of your fair housing rights is your strongest protection as a Rhode Island renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights (RICHR)
  Official board handling residential tenancy discrimination complaints. Offers guidance and intake forms.
• Rhode Island Office of Housing and Community Development – Renters Resources
• RI Fair Housing Practices Act (Full Text and Updates)
• RI Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• U.S. Department of HUD – File a Federal Fair Housing Complaint

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1. Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act (RI Gen. Laws § 34-37-1, et seq.)
2. Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (RI Gen. Laws § 34-18-1, et seq.)
3. Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights - File a Complaint
4. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Fair Housing Overview

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