Can a landlord refuse to rent to someone?

Landlords ask can you deny renting to someone; tenants ask why can a landlord refuse to rent to someone or can a landlord refuse to add someone to lease. Federal and state fair housing laws prohibit refusals based on race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity under federal guidance), familial status, national origin, and disability in most housing. ^[1][2] Lawful screening Landlords may often consider credit history, income (ability to pay), rental history, and sometimes criminal history subject to HUD guidance and state/local limits (some jurisdictions restrict criminal screening). Adding a roommate Can landlord refuse to add someone to lease—if the new person meets reasonable, nondiscriminatory criteria and occupancy standards comply with law, a blanket refusal tied to protected class is risky. Refusal based on too many occupants may be lawful if consistent with reasonable occupancy limits. Advertising and steering Steering families away from upper floors or quoting different terms based on protected status violates the FHA. ^[2] Complaints HUD and private lawsuits enforce the Fair Housing Act. ^[1][2]