Civil Rights
Introduction
Application of the Civil Rights Act
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Age Discrimination in Employment Act
Equal Rights
Education
Pregnancy
First Amendment Rights
Due Process
Equal Protection
Governmental Immunity
Sexual Orientation
Right to Privacy
Religious Freedoms
Religion and Employment
Religion and Education
Religion and Housing
Sexual Harassment
Religion and Housing
The Fair Housing Act (FHA) prohibits discrimination in the sale or rental of a dwelling. Pursuant to the FHA it is "unlawful to coerce, intimidate, threaten, or interfere with any person in the exercise or enjoyment" of his or her religion. Writing derogatory religious comments on a home in paint or refusing to rent to Muslims are examples of an FHA violation.
Can I ask for an applicant's religion on a rental application?
No. Factoring in a person's religion is discriminatory in housing decisions.
TIP: Asking an approved applicant for his or her religious affiliation is not discriminatory if it is for the purpose of notifying the tenant's clergyman in case of serious illness or death.