Tennessee Fair Housing: Who Is Protected Against Discrimination?

Every renter in Tennessee deserves fair and equal treatment when applying for or living in a rental property. Understanding which groups are protected against housing discrimination helps renters recognize their rights—and empowers them if issues arise. This guide explains the protected classes under Tennessee fair housing laws, outlines how to take action if you face discrimination, and provides key government resources for renters.

Who Is Protected Under Tennessee Fair Housing Laws?

Both federal and Tennessee state laws safeguard renters and home-seekers from discrimination. These laws prohibit landlords and housing providers from treating you unfairly based on certain personal characteristics known as "protected classes." The main laws are the federal Fair Housing Act and the Tennessee Human Rights Act^[1].

Federally Protected Classes

Under the federal Fair Housing Act, it is illegal to discriminate in housing because of:

• Race
• Color
• National Origin
• Religion
• Sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity)
• Disability
• Familial Status (having children under 18 in your household, including pregnancy and legal custody)

State-Added Protections in Tennessee

The Tennessee Human Rights Act follows the same protections as federal law. Currently, Tennessee does not add any extra protected classes beyond those listed above. However, these protections are strongly enforced within the state, and local governments may offer additional rules.

What Counts as Housing Discrimination?

Landlords, property managers, and housing organizations in Tennessee cannot take any of the following actions against someone because they are part of a protected class:

• Denying a rental application
• Charging higher rent or different security deposits
• Evicting or harassing tenants
• Refusing needed disability accommodations
• Stating a preference for certain groups in advertising
• Providing different amenities or services

How to File a Fair Housing Discrimination Complaint in Tennessee

If you believe you have been treated unfairly due to your membership in a protected class, you can file an official complaint. Both the State of Tennessee and the federal government have procedures in place to help renters.

Who Handles Housing Discrimination Cases in Tennessee?

• Tennessee Human Rights Commission (THRC) – Handles complaints under state law.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Office of Fair Housing & Equal Opportunity – Handles complaints under federal law.

Official Forms and Process

• THRC Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
  
  • Form Name/Number: Housing Complaint Intake Questionnaire (no formal number)
  • When to Use: If you believe your rental rights were violated due to a protected class and want state investigation.
  • How to Use: Complete the online or PDF version available from the THRC website and submit it online, by mail, or in person.
  • Download from THRC (official form)
  • Example: If a landlord denies your application after learning you have children, you can submit this form to the THRC for investigation.
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (HUD-903.1)
  
  • When to Use: If you want the federal government (HUD) to investigate housing discrimination.
  • How to Use: Complete the online form or mail the PDF from HUD's official portal.
  • Download HUD-903.1 (PDF)
  • Example: If a landlord refuses to rent to you after you disclose a disability, file this form for federal protection.

Tip: Timeliness matters. File your complaint within 180 days (state) or one year (federal) of the alleged discrimination for the best chance at a fair investigation.

Your Legal Rights and Next Steps

If you face potential housing discrimination, you don’t have to face it alone. Start by gathering evidence—keep records of conversations, emails, or documents related to your application or tenancy. If you file a complaint, an investigator will review your claim, contact the landlord, and help mediate or resolve your situation. You are protected from retaliation for reporting discrimination under both state and federal law.

Protected Class Summary Table

Protected Class	Covered by Tennessee?
Race	Yes
Color	Yes
National Origin	Yes
Religion	Yes
Sex (incl. Gender Identity & Sexual Orientation)	Yes
Disability	Yes
Familial Status	Yes

1. Who in Tennessee is protected from housing discrimination?
   Protections cover renters and applicants based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, and familial status under Tennessee and federal law.
2. What should I do if a landlord denies me housing for a discriminatory reason?
   Document the situation, retain any relevant communications, and file a complaint with the Tennessee Human Rights Commission or HUD.
3. Does Tennessee law protect renters from discrimination for things like age or income?
   No. Tennessee state and federal law does not list age or income as protected classes for fair housing, unless it is connected to another protected category, like disability.
4. Can a landlord refuse a reasonable accommodation for my disability?
   No. Refusing a reasonable accommodation (like allowing a service animal) for a disability is prohibited by both state and federal law.
5. Are undocumented immigrants covered by fair housing protections?
   The right to equal treatment in housing applies regardless of citizenship status but documentation may be requested for screening; discrimination based on national origin still violates fair housing laws.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tennessee Human Rights Commission (THRC) – State body handling discrimination complaints and landlord issues.
• HUD Fair Housing Information – Federal info and complaint tools.
• THRC Fair Housing Rights in Tennessee – Details on protected classes and complaint process.
• THRC Contact Information – Phone, email, and office locations.

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1. Tennessee Human Rights Act – Fair Housing Protections
2. Federal Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. §§ 3601-3619)

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