What Is Housing Advertising Discrimination?

Housing advertising discrimination occurs when an advertisement indicates a preference, limitation, or exclusion based on a protected class.

Advertisements should focus on the features of the housing, not the type of person the housing provider prefers or wishes to exclude.

Even if discrimination is not intended, advertisements that suggest certain groups are not welcome may violate fair housing laws.

Examples of Discriminatory Advertising:

Advertisements may violate fair housing laws if they suggest that certain individuals are preferred or excluded.

Examples may include language such as:

• “No children”
• “Adults only”
• “Christian household preferred”
• “Perfect for single professionals”
• “Ideal for young couples”
• “No wheelchairs”
• “Not suitable for families”

Advertisements that reference protected characteristics such as religion, disability, familial status, race, or national origin may raise fair housing concerns.

Examples of Advertising That May Be Allowed:

Housing advertisements may describe the property or its features, as long as the description does not indicate a preference for certain types of people.

Examples of acceptable descriptions may include:

• “One bedroom apartment available”
• “Second floor unit”
• “Quiet residential neighborhood”
• “Near public transportation”
• “Two-bedroom home with fenced yard”

These descriptions focus on the housing itself rather than the characteristics of potential tenants.