What protections do tenants have under Fair Housing laws?

Under Fair Housing laws in California, tenants are granted several important protections against discrimination and unfair treatment in housing. The California Department of Fair Employment and Housing aims to ensure that individuals have equal access to housing regardless of certain protected characteristics. These characteristics include race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and source of income. Tenants are protected from discriminatory practices when it comes to renting, leasing, or purchasing a dwelling. This means that landlords and housing providers cannot refuse to rent to someone based on any of the aforementioned characteristics. They also cannot impose different terms, conditions, or privileges on tenants based on these factors. Additionally, Fair Housing laws prohibit harassment and retaliation against tenants who assert their rights or participate in investigations related to housing discrimination. Reasonable accommodations and modifications are mandated for tenants with disabilities, such as allowing service animals or making physical alterations to the property. Furthermore, tenants are entitled to receive information about their rights under these laws, and they must not experience intimidation or threats for exercising their rights. For detailed information about what constitutes discrimination and how tenants can protect themselves, it is advisable to check the current web page related to tenant rights and Fair Housing provided by the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing.