Who should post the Washington State Fair Housing Poster?
The Washington State Law Against Discrimination (Chapter 49.60 RCW) protects all persons in Washington from unfair and discriminatory practices with respect to housing transactions, facilities, and services provided in connection therewith.
Because the Law Against Discrimination applies to nearly all housing transactions, including the rental and sale of housing (homes, apartment buildings, and condominium developments) and mortgage lending, the Washington State Human Rights Commission recommends displaying this poster in locations participating in housing transactions, including:
- real estate brokers
- financial institutions
- escrow agents
- sellers and lessors
- insurance providers
- builders
- property managers
What housing transactions are covered under the Law Against Discrimination?
The Washington State Law Against Discrimination makes it unlawful for anyone directly or indirectly engaged in the sale or rental of real estate to discriminate:
• In sales, rentals, leases, listings, negotiations, or inspections.
• In terms, rates, privileges, conditions, services, or financing.
• In receiving and transmitting offers to purchase or rent.
• By representing that real property is not available for inspection, sale, or rental when in fact it is.
What categories are protected under the Law Against Discrimination?
Under the Law Against Discrimination, it is an unfair and unlawful practice for any person, whether acting for himself, herself, or another person, to discriminate in real estate housing transactions because of:
- Race or Color
- Creed
- National Origin
- Sex
- Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity
- Disability
- Marital Status
- HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C Status
- Families with Children
- Use of a Dog Guide or Service Animal
- Honorably Discharged Veteran or Military Status
- Retaliation
- Citizenship or Immigration Status
A person who has engaged in an unfair practice in a real estate transaction may be ordered to pay actual damages, injunctive or other equitable relief, to the aggrieved party, and may be assessed civil penalties of up to $50,000. (RCW 49.60.225).