Discrimination and Retaliation
A landlord cannot discriminate against you when you apply. You cannot be evicted for complaining to a government agency or participating in a tenant’s organization.
Discrimination and Retaliation
Discrimination
A landlord cannot discriminate against you based on:
- Race
- Religion
- Sex
- Sexual Orientation
- Sexual Identity
- National Origin
- Marital Status
- Disability
- Age
- Children
- Immigration Status
Complaints of discrimination are handled by the State of California, Department of Fair Employment and Housing www.dfeh.ca.gov. Their telephone number is (800) 233-3212. Contact them if you feel you have been discriminated against.
When a landlord can refuse to rent
Landlords do not have to rent to tenants with bad credit, or who have used previous rentals for illegal purposes.
If a landlord refuses to rent to you because of your credit history, ask for a copy of the credit report. You are entitled to one.
Retaliation is not allowed
A landlord cannot raise your rent, evict you, or decrease services if you complain to a government agency about the landlord or take part in a tenants organization. This protection is good for 180 days from the date you file a complaint.
County of Los Angeles Department of Consumer and Business Affairs. Last change: Dec. 1, 2013
