Fair Housing means all persons have equal opportunity to be considered for rental units, purchase of property, housing loans, and property insurance regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, mental disability, physical disability, and familial status (presence of children in the home).
Resources
Rhode Island Landlord-Tenant Handbook
Created by the R.I. Office of Housing and Community Development, this handbook is a general reference/guide on landlord-tenant relationships based on Rhode Island General Law (RIGL) Chapter 34-18, entitled the “Residential Landlord and Tenant Act,” effective since January 1, 1987 (as amended).
Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
The Act was created to simplify, clarify, modernize and revise the law governing the rental of dwelling units and the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants. In addition, it encourages landlords and tenants to maintain and improve the quality and availability of housing.
File A Complaint
If you believe your rights may have been violated, you have options. Learn more about submitting a complaint.
Public Organizations
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Established in 1968, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is a cabinet department in the executive branch. Under a Secretary, this department oversees major programs including Community Planning & Development, Affordable/Public Housing, and Fair Housing & Equal Opportunity.
Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights
Established by the Rhode Island General Assembly, the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights is a state agency that specializes in anti-discrimination law enforcement.
RI Housing
Created in 1973 by the Rhode Island General Assembly, RIHousing is a self-sustaining corporation that works to ensure that all people who live in Rhode Island can afford a healthy home that meets their needs.
Bristol Department of Community Development
Bristol’s Code Compliance Officer enforces regulations outlined in the Town Code involving areas of public health, safety concerns, and welfare.
Non-Profit Resources
SouthCoast Fair Housing (SCFH)
SouthCoast Fair Housing (SCFH) is a nonprofit fair housing organization dedicated to eliminating housing discrimination, ensuring equal housing opportunities, and developing inclusive communities throughout Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts.
Equal Rights Center (ERC)
The Equal Rights Center (ERC) is a national non-profit civil rights organization dedicated to promoting equal opportunity in housing, employment, public accommodations, and government services. The purpose of the Fair Housing Act Checklist is to highlight regulations as they apply to covered multifamily dwellings.
