Landlord / Tenant Help

The Office of Compliance of the City of Canton can help tenants resolve issues with their landlords, as well as help landlords resolve issues with their tenants. The City always maintains a neutral role with both parties, unless it is discovered that a landlord is violating United States Fair Housing Act rules and regulations.

How Do I Know if I'm Being Discriminated Against?

Housing discrimination can be very hard to detect. Often, individuals may suspect they have been discriminated against, but are not sure they can prove it. Our investigations can often uncover discrimination the average person cannot detect. You have a right to file a complaint if you feel you have been discriminated against.

The law prohibits housing discrimination based upon: race, color, religion, national origin, gender, ancestry, disability, or familial status. Examples of this discrimination could include any of the following:

• Discrimination in the terms/conditions of housing (rent, security deposits, use of facilities, etc.)
• Discriminatory advertising
• Falsely denying that housing is available
• Refusing to sell or rent housing
• "Steering" of tenants by landlords to or from certain areas of a housing complex
• Use of threats, intimidation, or coercion

Tips for Landlords & Tenants

Both landlords and tenants have obligations and responsibilities under Ohio law.