Fair Chance Housing Legislation
In August 2017, the City of Seattle passed Fair Chance Housing legislation to help prevent unfair bias in housing against renters with a past criminal record.
The new ordinance prevents landlords from unfairly denying applicants housing based on criminal history. It also prohibits the use of advertising language that automatically or categorically excludes people with arrest records, conviction records, or criminal history.
The legislation caps a decade-long effort to address bias against people who have served their time, are seeking to provide for themselves and their families, and yet have faced barriers to accessing safe, stable housing.
The ordinance will go into effect on Feb. 19, 2018, and will be enforced by the Seattle Office for Civil Rights. Our office will also offer training opportunities for landlords, tenants, and others to learn about the requirements under the new law.
Useful Links and Resources from www.seattle.gov
Fair Chance Housing Legislation
Press Release – Council Committee Approves Fair Chance Housing Legislation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Internal Resource
New city of Seattle Rental Application
New and Required Wording For Your Rental Applications!
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Rebekah Near
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