Fair Housing

What is 'source of income' discrimination and how does Delaware's law extend fair housing protection?

ADiscrimination against persons who earn income from investments rather than employment

BDelaware law prohibits housing discrimination based on source of income — including Section 8/housing vouchers, social security, disability payments — going beyond the federal Fair Housing Act's seven classes✓ Correct

CFederal law already prohibits all source of income discrimination

DSource of income protection in Delaware only applies to commercial leases

Explanation

Delaware has enacted source of income protection in housing, making it illegal for landlords to refuse to rent to tenants based on how they pay rent — including federal housing vouchers (Section 8), disability payments, Social Security, or other lawful income sources. This extends Delaware fair housing law beyond the federal standard, significantly expanding housing access for lower-income Delawareans.

People Also Study

Key Terms to Know

Fair Housing Act

Federal law prohibiting discrimination in the sale, rental, or financing of housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and familial status.

Steering

An illegal practice where a real estate agent directs buyers toward or away from certain neighborhoods based on the buyer's race, religion, national origin, or other protected characteristics.

Redlining

An illegal practice where lenders or insurers deny services or charge higher rates in certain neighborhoods based on the racial or ethnic composition of those areas.

Pre-Approval

A lender's conditional commitment to loan a specific amount to a borrower, based on verified income, credit, and assets.