Hey everyone, I was recently denied housing in Washington State because of a felony on my record. I’m not a sex offender, but I’m confused about whether landlords can legally deny me. I’ve heard they can in some cases but not others. Can anyone explain what the law says or share any advice?
Yeah, it’s tricky. Landlords can deny you for a felony in Washington, but there are guidelines they have to follow. They can’t just have a blanket ban for all felonies.
Arun said:
Yeah, it’s tricky. Landlords can deny you for a felony in Washington, but there are guidelines they have to follow. They can’t just have a blanket ban for all felonies.
So even if it’s not a sex offense, they can still say no?
Arun said:
Yeah, it’s tricky. Landlords can deny you for a felony in Washington, but there are guidelines they have to follow. They can’t just have a blanket ban for all felonies.
Yep, but they have to consider things like how long ago the offense happened and if it was an isolated incident.
FYI, in Seattle, there’s a law called the Fair Chance Housing Ordinance. It stops landlords from rejecting people based on criminal convictions, except for registered sex offenders.
Jonathan said:
FYI, in Seattle, there’s a law called the Fair Chance Housing Ordinance. It stops landlords from rejecting people based on criminal convictions, except for registered sex offenders.
Oh wow, so if I move to Seattle, I might have better luck?
Jonathan said:
FYI, in Seattle, there’s a law called the Fair Chance Housing Ordinance. It stops landlords from rejecting people based on criminal convictions, except for registered sex offenders.
Exactly. It could be worth looking into housing options there if you’re able to move.
Don’t forget to check the denial letter. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), you can request the background report they used. If there’s anything wrong or outdated, you can dispute it.
Dev said:
Don’t forget to check the denial letter. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), you can request the background report they used. If there’s anything wrong or outdated, you can dispute it.
What’s the FCRA exactly?
Dev said:
Don’t forget to check the denial letter. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), you can request the background report they used. If there’s anything wrong or outdated, you can dispute it.
It’s a federal law that makes sure you can see and challenge any background check info used against you. Super helpful if something’s inaccurate.
You can also file a complaint if you think the denial was unfair. Try the Washington State Human Rights Commission or HUD for that.
Kai said:
You can also file a complaint if you think the denial was unfair. Try the Washington State Human Rights Commission or HUD for that.
HUD? What’s that?
Kai said:
You can also file a complaint if you think the denial was unfair. Try the Washington State Human Rights Commission or HUD for that.
HUD stands for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. They handle housing discrimination complaints.
Honestly, it’s tough. Some landlords are more open to people with records. You might want to focus on those who use more flexible screening methods.
Zhen said:
Honestly, it’s tough. Some landlords are more open to people with records. You might want to focus on those who use more flexible screening methods.
Thanks for the tip. Do you know where I can find those landlords?
Zhen said:
Honestly, it’s tough. Some landlords are more open to people with records. You might want to focus on those who use more flexible screening methods.
Sometimes local housing organizations have lists or can point you in the right direction. Worth a shot!