Utah Renters: Know Your Rights Against Familial Status Discrimination

Understanding your rights as a renter in Utah is essential—especially if you have children, are pregnant, or are forming a family. Familial status discrimination is prohibited by both federal and state law, meaning landlords generally cannot treat you differently because of your family situation. This article explains what familial status discrimination means, how the law protects you in Utah, and what you can do if you believe you’ve experienced unfair treatment.

What Is Familial Status Discrimination?

Familial status discrimination happens when landlords or property managers treat renters differently because they have children under 18, are pregnant, seeking custody of a minor, or are in the process of adopting or fostering a child. In Utah, such discrimination is unlawful under both the federal Fair Housing Act and the Utah Fair Housing Act.^[1]

Examples of Familial Status Discrimination

• Refusing to rent to families with children
• Imposing higher security deposits for renters with kids
• Restricting families with children to certain floors or areas
• Evicting tenants for having a baby or adopting a child

If you suspect this type of treatment, the law offers pathways for recourse.

Your Rights as a Renter in Utah

The Utah Fair Housing Act protects renters from discrimination based on familial status. Landlords cannot:

• Deny you a lease or application because of your family makeup
• Offer different rental terms (like higher rent or limiting amenities) to families
• Set unreasonable occupancy standards that target families with kids

There are some exceptions, like "housing for older persons" (age 55+ or 62+), which can lawfully limit tenancy to adults under certain legal requirements.^[2]

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

If you believe your household has experienced familial status discrimination, you have the right to file a complaint with state or federal agencies.

Official Tribunals and Departments

• Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division (UALD) – Handles fair housing claims in Utah
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Handles federal complaints

Relevant Official Forms

• Utah Fair Housing Complaint Form (No official form number)
  When to use: If you believe you’ve faced familial status discrimination by a Utah landlord or property manager.
  How to use: Complete and submit to the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division (UALD).
  Find the form here: Utah Fair Housing Complaint Form
• HUD Form 903 Online Complaint
  When to use: To file a federal fair housing complaint regarding familial status discrimination.
  How to use: Submit online or download via the HUD website.
  Find the form here: HUD Fair Housing Discrimination Complaint Form

Once your complaint is submitted, either UALD or HUD will investigate, which may include mediation or legal proceedings if discrimination is found.

Before you file, it’s helpful to gather any evidence—emails, voicemails, or documents showing how you were treated differently due to your family status.

What Landlords Can and Cannot Do

Landlords are allowed to set reasonable occupancy limits based on local codes but cannot use these limits to unfairly exclude families with children. They also must apply all rules equally to all tenants, regardless of familial status.

Summary: Know Your Rights and Take Action

Familial status discrimination is illegal in Utah. You have strong legal protections and resources if you encounter unfair treatment. Acting quickly can help resolve issues and protect your family’s housing rights.

FAQ: Familial Status and Utah Rentals

1. What is considered familial status under the law?
   Familial status includes having children under 18, being pregnant, seeking custody of a child, or currently adopting/fostering a child.
2. Can a Utah landlord refuse to rent to me because I have kids?
   No. Refusing to rent to families with children is prohibited by the Utah Fair Housing Act and federal law, unless the property qualifies as senior or age-restricted housing.
3. Where do I file a discrimination complaint in Utah?
   You can file with the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division (UALD) or with HUD. Both organizations provide complaint forms and can investigate your case.
4. Do I need legal representation to file a housing complaint?
   No, you can file a complaint on your own. However, legal aid may be helpful if your case is complex. Many advocacy groups offer free or low-cost support.
5. What evidence should I collect before filing a complaint?
   Any emails, texts, voicemails, lease documents, or notes describing how you were treated can support your complaint and strengthen your case.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division (UALD): (801) 530-6801
• HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity: (800) 669-9777
• Utah Legal Services: Free or low-cost legal aid for qualifying renters
• Utah Housing Resources: State housing programs and assistance

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1. See Utah Fair Housing Act for all current familial status protections.
2. Details on exemptions outlined in the Code of Federal Regulations: Housing for Older Persons.

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