FAQs
Tell me about the Fair Housing Program
State and Federal Fair Housing laws prohibit discrimination in the sale or rental of housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, familial status (children under the age of 18), disability, sexual preference, source of income, or any arbitrary status.
If a housing provider refuses to rent or sell a home, offers unequal terms, quotes different prices, or applies different policies based on the protected classes, he or she is violating federal law. Additionally, state law prohibits unequal treatment based on marital status, ancestry, age or any other arbitrary class discrimination.
A landlord may take into consideration income, credit rating or any other pertinent information that directly relates to a prospective tenant’s ability and willingness to pay rent. However, perspective tenants have the right to request and receive a reason why when they are denied housing and may file a private civil lawsuit anytime within two years of an alleged discrimination incident. Complaints may be filed with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing at (800) 884-1684 and with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development at (800) 347-3739 or online at http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp
The City of Oceanside contracts with North County Lifeline, a non-profit organization, to counsel property owners, managers, tenants and homebuyers on fair housing related issues. They can also advise you of landlord/tenant rights and responsibilities, including repair issues and to mediate with your landlord on your behalf. If you think you are a victim of a housing related discrimination incident or would like more information about fair housing, please call North County Lifeline at (760) 842-6226 or email kmatthews@nclifeline.org or visit them online at www.nclifeline.org. You may also contact the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s fair housing hotline at (800) 424-8590.
