Philadelphia has one of the strongest Fair Housing laws in the country. You're protected from discrimination in housing based on more categories than federal law requires.
Protected Classes in Philadelphia
Landlords in Philadelphia cannot discriminate against you based on:
Protected Classes
Source of Income Protection
This is huge. Philadelphia landlords cannot reject you solely because you use housing vouchers (Section 8), Social Security, or other government assistance. This is stronger protection than many other cities.
What Landlords Cannot Do
Under Fair Housing law, landlords cannot:
- Refuse to rent based on a protected class
- Charge different terms (higher rent, different deposit) based on protected class
- Discriminate in advertising (e.g., "no children," "Christians only")
- Ask discriminatory questions during application
- Steer you away from certain buildings or neighborhoods
- Retaliate against you for filing a complaint
- Refuse reasonable accommodations for disabilities
How to Recognize Discrimination
Warning Signs
- Landlord suddenly says apartment is "no longer available" after meeting you
- Different terms offered to you than what was advertised
- Questions about your religion, country of origin, or family plans
- Listing says "no children," "adults only," or similar
- Refusing to accept Section 8 or other vouchers
- Different deposit or application fees than other applicants
- Being told an apartment is available, but "not for someone like you"
Disability Accommodations
Landlords must provide reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities:
- Allow service animals and emotional support animals (even in "no pets" buildings)
- Permit modifications to the unit (grab bars, ramps, etc.)
- Provide accessible parking if available
- Allow early lease termination if disability requires relocation
You may need to provide documentation of your disability and need for accommodation, but landlords cannot charge extra fees or deposits for service animals.
How to File a Complaint
Where to Report Discrimination
Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations
Local enforcement — usually fastest
Phone: (215) 686-4670
PA Human Relations Commission
State enforcement
Phone: (215) 560-2496
What to Document
- Date, time, and location of the incident
- Name and contact info of the person who discriminated
- What was said or done (be specific)
- Names of any witnesses
- Copies of any listings, emails, or texts
- Your contact information
Timeline
File your complaint as soon as possible. Deadlines vary:
- Philadelphia: Within 1 year
- PA State: Within 180 days
- HUD (Federal): Within 1 year
Resources
- Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations — (215) 686-4670
- Fair Housing Rights Center — (267) 419-8918
- Community Legal Services — (215) 981-3700 — Free legal help
- HUD Fair Housing — 1-800-669-9777