Discrimination Against Families with Children

The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing against families with children under 18 years, persons who are pregnant or in the process of obtaining legal custody, or persons with written permission of the parent or legal guardian.

Familial status covers: 

• families with children under the age of 18, 

• pregnant persons, and 

• any person in the process of securing legal custody of a minor child (including adoptive or foster parents). 

• persons with written permission of the parent or legal guardian 

Examples of familial status discrimination include: 

• Refusing to rent to families with children 

• Evicting families once a child joins the family through, e.g., birth, adoption, custody 

• Requiring families with children to live on specific floors or in specific buildings or areas 

• Imposing overly restrictive rules about children’s use of the common areas (e.g., pools, hallways, open spaces) 

• Advertising that prohibits children 

• For more information contact us or visit HUD’s website to learn more about discrimination against families with children.

Watch Our Video on Fair Housing 101: Familial Status

Filing a Complaint

If you believe you have experienced discrimination in housing because of familial status, you can file a complaint with HUD or by contacting CSA San Diego County if you live in San Diego County.