Only certain kinds of discrimination are covered by fair housing laws. Landlords are not required by law to rent to any tenant who applies for a property. Landlords can select tenants based on objective business criteria, such as the applicant’s ability to pay the rent and take care of the property. Landlords can lawfully discriminate against tenants with bad credit histories or low incomes. Landlords must be consistent in the screening, treat all tenants in the same manner, and should document any legitimate business reason for not renting to a prospective tenant.