Owning rental property in Washington, D.C. is a little like renovating a historic rowhome: rewarding, full of character, and absolutely governed by rules you can’t afford to ignore. Between fair housing laws, tenant protections, and ever-evolving regulations, being a property owner in the District means staying informed—or risking costly mistakes.
One of the most important (and commonly misunderstood) areas of rental law in D.C. is protected traits under the District of Columbia Human Rights Act (DCHRA). These protections go well beyond federal fair housing laws, and for landlords and property owners, understanding them isn’t optional—it’s essential.
So grab your metaphorical clipboard. We’re breaking this down in a way that’s clear, approachable, and practical—without the legal jargon headache.
The Big Picture: What Are Protected Traits?
A protected trait is a personal characteristic that cannot legally be used to discriminate against someone. In Washington, D.C., discrimination based on these traits is prohibited in four major areas:
Employment
Housing
Educational institutions
Public accommodations and government services
For property owners, housing is the key area, and the rules apply whether you manage one condo or an entire portfolio of rentals.
The DCHRA protects people not only for traits they actually have, but also traits they are perceived to have. Translation? Assumptions can get landlords into trouble just as quickly as actions.
The law is enforced by the DC Office of Human Rights (OHR) and applies to anyone who lives, works, or seeks housing in the District.
Why D.C. Property Owners Need to Pay Attention
If you’re thinking, “I treat everyone fairly—this doesn’t apply to me,” think again. Many fair housing violations aren’t intentional. They happen through:
Outdated application criteria
Poorly worded listings
Inconsistent screening practices
Uninformed responses to tenant requests
In a city with 23 protected traits (yes, twenty-three), even well-meaning property owners can make missteps.
That’s why working with a knowledgeable property management team—like the experts at EJF Rentals—can make all the difference.
The 23 Protected Traits in Washington, D.C. (Explained for Property Owners)
Let’s walk through each protected trait and what it means in real-world rental situations.
1. Age
Protection applies to individuals 18 and older. You can’t refuse to rent based on someone being “too young” or “too old.”
2. Color
This refers to differences in skin pigmentation. Decisions can’t be influenced by complexion or shade.
3. Credit Information
In D.C., credit history is regulated more tightly than in many jurisdictions. You must apply credit criteria consistently and lawfully.
4. Disability
Both physical and mental impairments are covered. Reasonable accommodations—like service animals or accessibility modifications—are required in many cases.
5. Family Responsibilities
Caring for dependents, including children or elderly parents, is protected. Screening based on availability or assumptions about caregiving is not allowed.
6. Familial Status
This includes pregnancy and households with children under 18. “No kids allowed” policies? Not in D.C.
7. Gender Identity and Expression
Protection covers both a person’s gender identity and how they express it. Housing decisions must be neutral and respectful.
8. Genetic Information
This includes medical predispositions or family health history. These details have no place in housing decisions.
9. Homeless Status
Applicants cannot be denied housing solely because they are currently homeless or have experienced homelessness.
10. Marital Status
Married, single, divorced, separated—it’s all protected.
11. Matriculation
This applies to students and enrollment status. You can’t refuse a tenant simply because they’re enrolled in school.
12. National Origin
Country of origin, ancestry, or cultural background are all protected. Language preferences or accents are included here.
13. Personal Appearance
Yes, really. Hair styles, tattoos, piercings, body shape, and clothing are all protected under D.C. law.
14. Place of Residence or Business
You cannot discriminate based on where someone lives or works within (or outside) the District.
15. Political Affiliation
A tenant’s political beliefs or party affiliations cannot factor into housing decisions.
16. Race
Race and ethnicity are fully protected, consistent with federal law.
17. Religion
This includes organized religions, personal spiritual beliefs, and even the absence of religious belief.
18. Sealed Eviction Record
If an eviction record has been legally sealed, it cannot be considered during tenant screening.
19. Sex
This includes biological sex and reproductive health decisions.
20. Sexual Orientation
Protection applies to all orientations and relationship structures.
21. Source of Income
This is a big one for property owners. Lawful income sources—such as housing vouchers—must be accepted.
22. Status as a Victim or Family Member of a Victim of DVSOS
Victims of domestic violence, sexual offenses, or stalking are protected, including their family members.
23. Status as a Victim of an Intrafamily Offense
This includes victims of family violence or cruelty toward a household member’s animal.
Common Fair Housing Pitfalls (and How Property Owners Get Caught Off Guard)
Even experienced landlords can run into trouble by:
Advertising “ideal for singles”
Rejecting applicants with housing vouchers
Applying screening criteria inconsistently
Asking questions that seem casual but cross legal lines
And in D.C., penalties for violations can be steep, including fines, damages, and mandatory training.
That’s why many property owners choose to outsource compliance to professionals who live and breathe these regulations every day.
How Professional Property Management Makes This Easier
Staying compliant isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about protecting your investment, your reputation, and your peace of mind.
When you work with a trusted local team like EJF Rentals, you get:
Legally compliant marketing and listings
Consistent, fair tenant screening
Up-to-date knowledge of D.C. housing laws
Proper handling of accommodations and requests
Clear documentation and risk reduction
In other words, fewer headaches—and fewer late-night Google searches about housing law.
You can learn more about how professional management supports property owners at ejfrentals.com.
The Bottom Line for D.C. Property Owners
Washington, D.C. has one of the most comprehensive human rights frameworks in the country—and for property owners, that means responsibility comes with opportunity.
Understanding protected traits isn’t about walking on eggshells. It’s about operating professionally, ethically, and profitably in a complex rental market.
And you don’t have to do it alone.
Hiring a property manager can help you navigate fair housing laws, stay compliant, and protect your investment—without sacrificing your sanity. If you’re ready to work with a team that knows D.C. inside and out, EJF Rentals is here to help.
👉 Call Conrad today at 202.803.7200 to learn how our expert team can take care of all your property management needs!
