Rhode Island LGBTQ+ Housing Rights: Fair Housing Laws for Renters

Understanding your rights as an LGBTQ+ renter in Rhode Island is essential. State and federal laws work together to protect renters from discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and other protected characteristics. This guide explains your legal protections, how to respond to discrimination, and where to find official resources.

Protections for LGBTQ+ Renters in Rhode Island

Rhode Island law makes it illegal for landlords to discriminate against renters because of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. These rights are reinforced at the federal level under the Fair Housing Act, as interpreted by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

• Landlords cannot refuse to rent, renew, or show housing to someone because they are LGBTQ+.
• It is illegal to set different rental terms or conditions (such as increased rent, deposits, or rules) based on LGBTQ+ status.
• Harassment, intimidation, or threats aimed at LGBTQ+ renters are prohibited.

Learn more about these protections via Rhode Island Human Rights Commission and HUD's LGBTQ+ Housing Discrimination guidance.

Rhode Island’s Fair Housing Law

The Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act (R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-37) specifically bans discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity or expression. This law applies to most rental housing throughout the state.

• Protected classes include sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, race, color, religion, sex, disability, family status, and national origin.
• Exemptions exist for certain owner-occupied properties, but most rental situations are covered.

The official body enforcing these laws is the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights.

What Counts as Housing Discrimination?

Discrimination can be obvious or subtle. Examples include:

• Refusing to rent or show an apartment
• Evicting someone after learning about their sexual orientation or gender identity
• Making offensive comments or threats
• Imposing stricter rules or using selective enforcement of policies

Reporting Discrimination: Filing a Complaint

If you believe your rights as an LGBTQ+ renter were violated, you have the right to file a complaint with the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights. They will investigate the incident and decide on next steps, which can include mediation or holding a hearing.

Official Form: Housing Charge Intake Form

• Form Name: Housing Charge Intake Form
• When and How It's Used: Use this form if you want to report housing discrimination. For example, if a landlord refused to rent to you because you are transgender or in a same-sex relationship, you would fill out this form with details and submit it to the Commission.
• Official Link: Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (PDF)

Action Steps: How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

• Download and complete the Housing Discrimination Complaint Form.
• Provide as much detail as possible, including dates, addresses, and the names of people involved.
• Attach any evidence you may have (emails, texts, lease copies).
• Submit the completed form by mail, email, or in person to the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights.
• The Commission will contact you to explain the review process and next steps.

Filing a complaint is free, and retaliation by landlords for doing so is illegal.

Rhode Island Housing Tribunal and Tenant Rights

In Rhode Island, disputes and legal actions regarding housing discrimination are handled by the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights. Standard landlord-tenant issues (not involving discrimination) may also be heard in district court according to the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18).

Your Rights During the Rental Process

Remember, you are protected:

• When applying for an apartment
• During your tenancy (lease renewals, rules enforcement)
• If your landlord is selling or transferring the property

Keep all communication with your landlord in writing to create a clear record of your rental relationship and any issues that arise.

FAQ: LGBTQ+ Housing Rights in Rhode Island

1. Can a landlord ask about my sexual orientation or gender identity?
   No, landlords are not permitted to ask about your sexual orientation or gender identity as a condition of renting. Such questions can be a sign of discrimination and are prohibited under Rhode Island law.
2. What should I do if I am evicted for being LGBTQ+?
   If you believe your eviction is due to your LGBTQ+ status, gather all documentation and file a discrimination complaint with the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights. Illegal evictions based on protected characteristics can be challenged.
3. Does Rhode Island law protect LGBTQ+ people in roommate situations?
   Most protections apply to formal landlord-tenant relationships. If you are renting a room or sharing a lease, you may still be protected, but some exemptions may apply. Contact the Commission for advice about your specific case.
4. Is retaliation allowed if I file a discrimination complaint?
   No. It is illegal for your landlord to take action against you, such as increasing rent or ending your lease, because you filed or considered filing a discrimination complaint.
5. What evidence helps a discrimination complaint?
   Keep copies of applications, correspondence, lease agreements, and any communication that reflects possible bias. Witness statements can also help support your case.

Key Takeaways for LGBTQ+ Renters

• Rhode Island law provides strong protections against discrimination for LGBTQ+ renters.
• You can report any incidents to the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights for free support.
• Documentation and written communication can strengthen your case and protect your rights.

Knowing your rights and acting quickly helps ensure fair and equitable housing in Rhode Island.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights – Main portal for discrimination complaints and guides.
• Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act – Read the official legislation.
• HUD LGBTQ+ Housing Discrimination – Federal level guidance from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
• Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – State laws outlining general tenant rights.
• Official Complaint Contact Information – For submitting forms and getting direct support.

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1. Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act (R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-37)
2. Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18)
3. Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights
4. HUD: Equal Access regardless of Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity
5. Housing Discrimination Complaint Form

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