Pennsylvania Fair Housing Act: An Overview

Key Takeaways

• Pennsylvania fair housing laws go beyond federal standards, adding protections such as age and support animal use, with some local areas extending coverage even further.
• Compliance requires consistency and objectivity, from advertising and tenant screening to handling accommodations, to avoid costly legal risks.
• Working with experts like Skyline Property Management helps ensure full compliance, protecting your investment while promoting fair and inclusive housing practices. 

The Pennsylvania Fair Housing Act plays a critical role in protecting individuals from housing discrimination and ensuring equal access to housing opportunities across the state. 

Building on federal protections established by the Fair Housing Act, Pennsylvania law reinforces the right of every individual to rent, buy, or finance a home without facing bias based on characteristics such as race, religion, or disability. 

For property owners and landlords, understanding these regulations is essential to maintaining compliance and fostering inclusive communities. 

Skyline Property Management supports property owners in navigating these legal requirements while promoting fair and responsible housing practices.

Navigating Fair Housing Laws in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania housing providers must comply with both federal and state regulations, which are often more comprehensive than national standards. 

While federal law establishes a baseline for fair housing practices, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act expands these protections to promote greater equity across the Commonwealth. 

Skyline Property Management supports property owners in understanding and applying these requirements to maintain a compliant and professional rental business.

Managing rental properties in cities such as Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, or Allentown requires a clear understanding of how local and state laws intersect. 

For independent landlords, even a minor error in advertising or tenant screening can lead to costly legal disputes, making consistent compliance essential for protecting both investments and reputation.

Protected Classes Under State and Federal Law

The foundation of fair housing lies in understanding protected classes. At the federal level, discrimination is prohibited based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex including gender identity and sexual orientation, familial status, and disability. 

Pennsylvania law expands these protections by including age, specifically individuals 40 and older, as well as the use of guide or support animals.

In some areas, local ordinances provide additional protections. Certain municipalities prohibit discrimination based on source of income, including Housing Choice Vouchers. 

In these locations, landlords cannot refuse applicants solely because they receive government rental assistance. Staying informed about these evolving regulations can be challenging, which is why many property owners rely on professional management for guidance.

Fair Housing in Marketing and Advertising

Compliance begins when a property is listed for rent. Advertising must focus strictly on the property’s features and lease terms rather than the type of tenant being targeted. 

Phrases such as “professionals,” “active adults,” or “perfect for a quiet couple” may be interpreted as discriminatory against families or individuals with disabilities.

Effective marketing should highlight objective features such as proximity to public transit, schools, or local amenities.

It is also important to avoid steering, which involves encouraging or discouraging individuals from certain neighborhoods based on protected characteristics. 

Clear, consistent, and objective language helps attract a diverse pool of qualified applicants while maintaining compliance.

The Tenant Screening Process

Consistency is essential during tenant screening. The same criteria must be applied to every applicant, including credit requirements, income verification, and background checks. Requesting different information from different applicants can quickly lead to fair housing violations.

Special care should be taken when evaluating criminal history. Blanket policies that exclude all applicants with a criminal record are discouraged, as they may disproportionately impact certain groups. Instead, landlords should consider the nature of the offense and the time that has passed. 

Working with a professional property management company ensures that screening processes are standardized, fair, and legally compliant.

Accommodations and Modifications for Disabilities

Fair housing laws require landlords to provide reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities. 

Accommodations involve changes to policies or rules, such as allowing a service animal or emotional support animal in a property with a no pet policy. These animals are not considered pets, so landlords cannot charge pet fees or deposits for them.

What Pennsylvania Landlords Should Know About Service Animals

Service animal and assistance animal requests can be one of the more confusing areas of fair housing compliance for rental property owners. In the video below, Chip Robinson, broker and owner of Skyline Property Management, explains several important considerations landlords should understand when handling service animal requests, including no-pet policies, fees, documentation, and tenant responsibilities.

Reasonable modifications refer to physical changes to the property, such as installing ramps or grab bars. In most private rentals, tenants are responsible for the cost of these modifications, but landlords must allow them when they are necessary for safe and equal use of the property. 

Handling these requests requires both legal knowledge and a thoughtful approach to tenant needs.

Bottom Line

Fair housing compliance is not only about avoiding legal issues, but also about fostering a fair and inclusive rental environment across Pennsylvania. 

By understanding protected classes, maintaining objective advertising practices, and applying consistent screening standards, landlords can build a strong and reputable business. However, keeping up with evolving federal, state, and local regulations can be challenging.

Skyline Property Management helps property owners navigate these complexities with confidence. 

From compliant marketing and thorough tenant screening to managing accommodation requests, our team ensures every aspect of your rental operation aligns with current laws.

Contact Skyline Property Management to learn how we can protect your investment and provide peace of mind.

Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided in this blog is intended for general guidance and should not be considered as a replacement for professional legal advice. It is important to be aware that laws pertaining to property management may change, rendering this information outdated by the time you read it.