DC source-of-income protections: why you cannot refuse Section 8 vouchers, what you can still screen for, and how OHR enforces violations.
No. DC’s Human Rights Act makes source of income a protected class. Refusing to rent to a qualified applicant because they hold a Housing Choice (Section 8) voucher, a DCHA voucher, or any other rental subsidy is illegal. Penalties include OHR damages, civil fines, and attorney fees.
Yes. The Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspection is separate from the DC BBL inspection. The unit must pass HQS before DCHA pays.
Yes, as long as you require it of every tenant regardless of voucher status.
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