The process of securing rental housing can be challenging, particularly for individuals transitioning from shelters or temporary housing. While fair housing laws are designed to prevent discrimination, questions often arise about whether a landlord can legally refuse a tenant application based on their history of living in a shelter.

What Does the Law Say?

Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), it is illegal for landlords to discriminate against tenants based on protected characteristics such as race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, or familial status. However, the FHA does not explicitly protect individuals based on their housing history, including whether they have lived in a shelter.

Some states and cities, however, have expanded protections to include source of income or housing status. For example:

  • In California, it is illegal to discriminate against renters based on their source of income, including housing assistance or subsidies.
  • New York City has specific laws that protect individuals using rental assistance or transitioning from shelters.
  • Minnesota prohibits discrimination against tenants receiving housing vouchers, which may indirectly benefit those coming from shelters.

Reasons a Landlord Might Deny an Applicant

Even if living in a shelter is not directly used as a reason, landlords may cite related factors to justify denial, such as:

  1. Credit History: Applicants who have experienced financial difficulties may have low credit scores, which landlords often use to assess risk.
  2. Rental History: A lack of verifiable rental references or evictions from previous housing can raise red flags for property owners.
  3. Income Verification: Landlords may require proof of stable income, and applicants transitioning from shelters may need additional documentation to meet these requirements.
  4. Criminal Background Checks: Some landlords screen for criminal records, which can disproportionately affect individuals who have experienced homelessness.

Legal Protections and Advocacy

If a tenant believes they were denied housing due to their history in a shelter, they can take the following steps:

  1. Review Local Laws: States like Washington and Oregon provide enhanced tenant protections, making it illegal to deny housing based on homelessness or rental assistance programs.
  2. File a Complaint: Report suspected discrimination to local housing authorities or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
  3. Seek Legal Assistance: Organizations like Legal Aid or Fair Housing Advocates can provide support and advice for navigating discriminatory practices.

How to Strengthen Your Application

For individuals with a history of living in a shelter, here are some tips to improve their chances of approval:

  1. Provide Strong References: Include letters of recommendation from shelter staff, caseworkers, or previous landlords who can vouch for reliability and character.
  2. Demonstrate Financial Stability: Share proof of stable income or participation in housing assistance programs, such as Section 8 vouchers or state rental aid.
  3. Be Transparent: Openly communicate about your circumstances and efforts to maintain stable housing.
  4. Offer a Larger Deposit: If legal in your area, offering an additional security deposit can sometimes reassure landlords.

Examples from Different States

  • Texas: While the state does not have specific laws protecting housing history, landlords must adhere to federal anti-discrimination laws. Shelters often partner with rental assistance programs to help tenants meet landlord requirements.
  • Massachusetts: Strong tenant protections exist for those using rental subsidies, and landlords are encouraged to consider applicants transitioning from shelters.
  • Illinois: Programs like the Emergency and Transitional Housing Program aim to provide support to shelter residents, making it easier to transition into permanent housing.

Conclusion

While a landlord may not explicitly deny an applicant solely for previously living in a shelter, they may rely on factors like credit history, income, or rental references, which can disproportionately impact those transitioning from temporary housing. Understanding local tenant protections and strengthening your rental application are key steps to overcoming these challenges. If you suspect discrimination, resources are available to help you fight for fair housing opportunities.

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