Washington LGBTQ+ Fair Housing Rights for Renters

Washington provides strong protection for LGBTQ+ renters facing housing discrimination. If you are a renter in Washington, it's important to know how these housing rights work, where to turn if you experience unfair treatment, and what legal remedies are available to you.

Understanding LGBTQ+ Housing Protections in Washington State

Both Washington state and federal law prohibit housing discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. These protections cover renting, applying for housing, lease renewals, and all everyday aspects of being a renter.

• Washington Law Against Discrimination (WLAD): This law directly bans discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in rentals, advertising, and evictions.
• Federal Fair Housing Act: Thanks to HUD guidance, discrimination against LGBTQ+ people is also prohibited under federal law, nationwide.

The Washington Human Rights Commission (HRC) enforces the state’s fair housing laws and accepts complaints from renters facing housing injustice.

What Is Considered Discrimination?

Discrimination can include:

• Denying a rental application due to sexual orientation or gender identity
• Imposing higher rent or deposits for LGBTQ+ renters
• Harassment or threats by a landlord or other tenants that the landlord ignores
• Advertising that discourages LGBTQ+ renters from applying

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

If you believe your housing rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with the Washington Human Rights Commission (HRC). You must file within one year of the discriminatory act.

• Form Name: Housing & Public Accommodations Intake Questionnaire
  When to Use: If you want to start a formal discrimination complaint against a landlord, property manager, or housing provider. For example, if you were denied an apartment because you are transgender, fill out this form.
  Where to Get It: Official Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (WA HRC)

Washington HRC investigators will contact you, collect evidence, and move forward with your case. You can also file complaints with the federal U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development if you prefer, or if your case involves federal law.

Your Rights Under Washington Housing Law

Washington’s fair housing law is found in the Revised Code of Washington, Chapter 49.60 (the Washington Law Against Discrimination). It protects LGBTQ+ renters from unfair treatment in:

• Applications and screenings
• Lease renewals and termination
• Rental rules and conditions
• Evictions and harassment

Landlords who violate these laws can face civil penalties, be required to make changes, and pay damages to victims.

The Official Tribunal for WA Tenancy and Fair Housing

Fair housing complaints in Washington are handled by the Washington State Human Rights Commission (HRC).

What to Do If You Experience Discrimination

If you believe your rights as an LGBTQ+ renter are being violated:

• Document what happened, including dates, times, people involved, and any written communications.
• Submit the Housing & Public Accommodations Intake Questionnaire to the HRC or HUD.
• Keep copies of your lease, rental agreements, and any relevant documents.

Keep detailed records—prompt documentation can make a strong difference in your case.

FAQ: LGBTQ+ Housing Rights in Washington State

1. What protections do LGBTQ+ renters have in Washington?
   Washington law bans discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. This means landlords cannot deny housing, charge extra, or harass renters because they are LGBTQ+.
2. How do I file a discrimination complaint?
   You can start by submitting the Housing & Public Accommodations Intake Questionnaire to the Washington Human Rights Commission within one year of the incident.
3. Can my landlord refuse to rent to me because I am transgender?
   No. Such actions are illegal under both Washington state and federal law.
4. What happens after I file a complaint?
   An HRC investigator will contact you to review your case, gather evidence, and may mediate or pursue penalties if discrimination is found.
5. Where can I get help if I face retaliation for reporting discrimination?
   You are also protected from landlord retaliation. You can contact the HRC or seek legal assistance through tenant support organizations.

Key Takeaways for Washington LGBTQ+ Renters

• Washington law offers strong protections for LGBTQ+ renters.
• File a formal complaint with the Human Rights Commission for any discrimination.
• Document everything and act promptly if your rights are violated.

Knowing your rights empowers you to respond quickly and effectively against discrimination.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington State Human Rights Commission – report discrimination, file complaints, and get information
• Washington Attorney General Fair Housing Resources
• HUD Washington State Fair Housing Assistance
• WashingtonLawHelp Fair Housing Rights

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1. Revised Code of Washington – Chapter 49.60 (WLAD)
2. HUD – Fair Housing Complaint Process
3. Washington State Human Rights Commission

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