Housing Rights for Victims of Domestic and Sexual Violence in Philadelphia County
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Housing Rights for Victims of Domestic and Sexual Violence
Can I be evicted for domestic or sexual violence?
No, as of January 2012, the Philadelphia Unfair Rental Practices Ordinance makes it illegal for landlords to evict tenants living in Philadelphia because they are victims of domestic violence or sexual assault. Your landlord also can’t discriminate against you by raising your rent or refusing to make repairs because of the domestic or sexual violence.
What should I do if I am being evicted?
Send your landlord a letter explaining that you are a victim of domestic or sexual violence and that Philadelphia law makes it illegal for him to evict you. If your landlord won’t listen, you can file a complaint with the Philadelphia Fair Housing Commission by calling 215.686.4670.
Can I break my lease to escape violence?
- A letter letting him know you will be moving in 30 days.
- Attach at least one form of proof: police report, protection from abuse order or letter from a health care professional, guidance counselor, or victims’ services organization.
Can just the abuser be evicted?
Can I be evicted for calling the police?
No, your landlord cannot evict or punish you for calling the police to protect yourself or a family member.
What if I live in subsidized housing?
If you are a public housing, Section 8 voucher or Section 8 projectbased tenant, you are protected by the Philadelphia Unfair Rental Practices Ordinance and by the federal Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Under VAWA, you can’t be denied admission or evicted because of domestic violence, dating violence or stalking. VAWA also says you can’t lose your voucher if you break your lease to stay safe.
Early Lease Termination due to Domestic or Sexual Violence (Sample Letter)
________________________________ (Landlord’s Name)
________________________________ (Landlord’s Address)
________________________________ (Landlord’s City, State and Zip Code)
Dear Sir or Madam:
I am giving you 30-day notice that I am terminating my lease early due to domestic or sexual violence, pursuant to Philadelphia Ordinance § 9-804. I will move out, remove all my belongings and return my keys by _________________________ (30 days from date of letter).
Attached please find one of the following forms of documentation:
□ Police report
□ Protection from Abuse Order
□ Letter from a healthcare professional
□ Letter from guidance counselor or victims’ services organization
Once I have moved out I will send you a letter requesting the return of my security deposit. Please call me at ________________________ (phone number) with any questions.
Sincerely,
______________________________________
(Your Signature)
___________________ (Date)
Send certified mail, return receipt requested.