Rhode Island Renters: Your Rights Against Familial Status Discrimination

Every renter in Rhode Island should feel secure knowing that state and federal laws protect against discrimination based on familial status. Understanding these rights can empower families to challenge unfair treatment and ensure equal access to housing.

What Is Familial Status Discrimination?

Familial status discrimination refers to treating people unfairly in housing situations because they have children under 18, are pregnant, or are seeking custody of a child. Under the federal Fair Housing Act, as well as Rhode Island law, landlords and property managers cannot refuse to rent, impose different terms, or otherwise hinder tenants or applicants on the basis of their familial status.^[1]

How Rhode Island Law Protects Renters With Families

Rhode Island’s Fair Housing Practices Act (R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-37) details protections against housing discrimination, including for families with children. This means:

• Landlords cannot deny you housing just because you have (or expect) children
• Different rules, rent increases, or deposits because of children are not allowed
• Eviction or threats for reasons related to family size or having children are illegal
• Advertising that discourages families with children (e.g., “adults only”) is not permitted

What Is the Official Housing Tribunal in Rhode Island?

Discrimination complaints in Rhode Island are overseen by the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights (RICHR). This agency investigates housing discrimination cases and offers support to renters.

Recognizing Signs of Familial Status Discrimination

Be vigilant for these warning signs, which may indicate discrimination:

• A landlord tells you an apartment is “not suitable for children” or enforces “adults only” policies
• You’re offered different lease terms or higher security deposits because you have kids
• Facilities, like playgrounds or laundry rooms, are restricted for families with children
• Unwarranted noise complaints or eviction threats following the birth or adoption of a child

If you notice any of these, you may have grounds for a complaint.

Filing a Discrimination Complaint in Rhode Island

Tenants who believe they’ve experienced familial status discrimination have a clear process to seek help.

Forms and How to Use Them

• Housing Discrimination Complaint Form: This is the official form for reporting discrimination in Rhode Island.
  • Form Name: Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire
  • Where to Find: Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights Complaint Portal
  • How to Use: Complete the online or downloadable complaint form if you feel you have been denied housing or treated unfairly due to your family status. For example, if a landlord said, “No children allowed,” you would document this, gather any written evidence (emails, texts), and submit it through the official portal or by mail to RICHR.

Action Steps if You Face Familial Status Discrimination

If you suspect discrimination, follow these steps:

• Keep detailed notes and documentation of the incident(s)
• Gather evidence such as emails, texts, advertisements, or written notices
• Submit the Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire to the RICHR
• Wait for the RICHR to review your complaint—they may follow up for more detail or schedule an interview
• You may also file a federal complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) if you prefer

Following these steps ensures your concerns are handled by the appropriate authorities.

FAQ: Familial Status Discrimination in Rhode Island

1. Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I have children?
   No. Both federal and Rhode Island laws prohibit landlords from refusing to rent based on familial status, including having children or being pregnant.
2. Are there exceptions where landlords can limit renting to families?
   Generally no, but specifically designated "housing for older persons" (such as some senior communities) may be exempt. Always check if the building qualifies under this provision.
3. How long do I have to file a housing discrimination complaint in Rhode Island?
   Typically, you must file a complaint within one year of the alleged discrimination.
4. Who investigates discrimination complaints in Rhode Island?
   The Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights handles investigations into housing discrimination for state cases.
5. What should I include with my discrimination complaint?
   Include any evidence (written notes, communications, advertisements, witness names) that support your claim.

Key Takeaways for Rhode Island Renters

• You are legally protected against housing discrimination because of your family status under both state and federal law
• If you face discrimination, you can file a complaint using the official form from the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights
• Keep documentation and act quickly—the law is on your side

Stand up for your rights with knowledge and timely action.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Rhode Island

• Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights – File complaints, access forms, and receive guidance (401-222-2661)
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process – Federal complaints and resources
• Rhode Island Legal Services – Free or reduced-cost legal help for renters
• Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act (full text)

---

1. Fair Housing Act – see federal protections against discrimination
2. Rhode Island General Laws, Title 34, Chapter 37: Fair Housing Practices Act
3. Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights Housing Discrimination Complaint Form

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations