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Essential Fair Housing Laws for Los Angeles Landlords
Jun 5, 2025
As a landlord, understanding California’s fair housing laws isn’t just good practice—it’s the law. Discriminating against prospective tenants based on protected characteristics can expose you to serious legal consequences, even if it’s unintentional.
In this video, Bijan Shakibkoo, co-founder and managing partner at SNS Law Group, walks you through what every landlord in Los Angeles needs to know about fair housing rights.
Did you know you can’t deny housing based on a tenant’s source of income, including Section 8 vouchers? That’s one of the most commonly misunderstood rules—and one of the easiest ways landlords get into legal trouble.
Other protected characteristics include race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and more. These protections apply when screening tenants, setting terms, or making rental decisions.
If you’re a Los Angeles landlord navigating fair housing laws or tenant screening, SNS Law Group is here to help. Our attorneys specialize in real estate law and are dedicated to ensuring your compliance and protecting your business.
Transcript:
Landlords, are you aware of the protected characteristics that could impact your rental decisions?
Hi, my name is Bijan Shakibkoo, I’m co-founder and managing partner here at SNS Law Group. And make sure to follow us for more updates on L.A.’s rental laws and landlord rights.
Fair Housing Laws & Housing Discrimination
As a landlord, it’s crucial to understand the laws that protect your tenants and to make sure you’re staying compliant. Discriminating on a rental application based on protected characteristics can lead to serious legal consequences.
Here are just a few of the characteristics you cannot use to deny someone housing: race, sexual orientation, gender, and source of income, including Section 8 Housing assistance.
Source of Income
Source of income is one of the most commonly overlooked protections, and it has caused serious legal issues for landlords who didn’t realize it applied.
Other Protected Characteristics
To see the full list of protected characteristics, check out the description below. These laws apply when screening tenants, setting lease terms, or making rental decisions. Staying informed helps you avoid discrimination, even unintentionally.
Compliance is key. Protect your business. As a landlord. It’s your responsibility to follow these rules carefully.
Contact SNS Law Group About Fair Housing Laws
At SNS Law Group, we’re here to guide you through the legal landscape and help you avoid costly mistakes. Reach out to us today if you have any questions about tenant screening or fair housing compliance.
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