Occupancy and Families with Children

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) states that an occupancy policy of two persons in a bedroom, as a general rule, is reasonable. However, the reasonableness of any occupancy policy is disputable, and each case may be evaluated individually and also be based on factors such as the configuration of the unit (e.g. the presence of a den or small extra room), the overall size of the dwelling, the capacity of septic, sewer or other building systems or the existence of state or local zoning laws. If a landlord or property manager restricts occupancy to just one person per bedroom in a rental unit, this policy may have a negative effect on families with children, and may be considered discriminatory.

If you live in Philadelphia, Southeast Pennsylvania or Lehigh Valley and have questions about familial status discrimination in housing, contact info@equalhousing.org, 866-540-FAIR or complete an online form.

Resources:

PO BOX 558, Fort Washington, PA 19034
866-540-FAIR | 267-419-8918
info@equalhousing.org