When making any posting, you must comply with
section 3604(c) of the Federal Fair Housing Act. This law generally prohibits stating, in any notice or ad for the sale or rental of a dwelling, a discriminatory preference based on any of the following protected categories:
- Race or Color
- National Origin
- Religion
- Sex
- Familial Status
- Handicap / Disability
The
Fair Housing Act provides additional protections, and limited exceptions, that are explained in publications from the
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development ("HUD") and the
Department of Justice. HUD has issued
guidance on advertising, including for roommates.
State and local laws often prohibit discrimination based on other factors (e.g. sexual orientation, age, marital status, or source of income).
You may report housing discrimination to
HUD at 1-800-669-9777, or to a
fair housing advocate near you.