Right to Access Housing Services

The Right to Access Housing Services is a legal protection that ensures tenants have equal opportunity to obtain and use housing-related services and facilities without discrimination. This right is based on the principle that all individuals should have fair access to the resources and support they need to secure and maintain stable housing. Housing services may include rental assistance programs, housing counseling, legal aid, and other community-based resources that help tenants find and keep affordable and suitable rental housing. Under fair housing laws, housing service providers cannot discriminate against tenants based on protected characteristics such as race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. Tenants who have been denied access to housing services or subjected to discriminatory treatment may have the right to file a complaint with local or federal fair housing agencies or pursue legal action against the responsible parties.