Fair Housing & Posting Guidelines
Last updated: October 2026 • Status: Draft pending legal review
1. Equal Housing Opportunity Commitment
Roomavio supports equal housing opportunity. Listings may not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status or disability.
2. Prohibited Preferences for Whole-Unit Listings
When advertising self-contained rental properties (such as entire apartments, houses, accessory dwelling units, or standalone condos), it is illegal to state any preference, limitation, or discrimination based on:
- Race or Color: No preference or exclusion regarding racial background or physical appearance.
- Religion or Creed: No religious preferences, requirements, or affiliations.
- National Origin or Ancestry: No discrimination based on citizenship, birthplace, nationality, primary language, or cultural heritage.
- Sex, Gender Identity, or Sexual Orientation: No discriminatory advertising based on biological sex, sexual orientation, or gender expression.
- Familial Status: No discrimination against families with children under age 18, pregnant individuals, or persons seeking legal custody.
- Disability or Handicap: No exclusion of individuals with physical, mental, or sensory disabilities.
3. Shared Living Space Exemption
Under the Fair Housing Act, an exemption applies when an existing occupant is advertising for a roommate to share their own private residence and common living spaces (such as a shared kitchen, bathroom, or living room):
- Gender/Sex Preference: In shared-living situations where bathrooms or private quarters are shared, individuals may state a preference for roommates of a specific gender.
- Non-Exempt Classes: Even in shared housing, preferences or exclusions based on race, color, religion, national origin, familial status, or disability remain strictly prohibited.
4. Permissible Listing Criteria (Living Habits & House Rules)
Roomavio encourages transparent discussions regarding daily compatibility. You are welcome to set clear, non-discriminatory house rules:
- Daily Schedule: Early riser, night owl, shift work, or flexible schedule.
- Cleanliness: Relaxed, average, or very tidy common areas.
- Guest Policies: Guests rarely, guests sometimes, or guests often.
- Pet & Smoking Policies: Clear disclosure of pet rules and non-smoking household rules.
5. Reporting & Moderation
If you encounter a listing that violates these guidelines, click the Report button directly on the listing card, or contact our moderation team at support@roomavio.com.