Discrimination in Housing

Source: Act on Equal Treatment outside the Labour Market (No. 85/2018, as amended 2022); Act on Equal Status and Equal Rights Irrespective of Gender (No. 150/2020)

Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Icelandic Acts of the Althingi, statutory instruments, and official guidance.

Icelandic National Law

What is this right?

Icelandic law prohibits discrimination in housing and rental markets:

  • Protected grounds (Act No. 85/2018): Race and ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, reduced capacity to work, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics.
  • Gender equality (Act No. 150/2020): Prohibits gender-based discrimination across all areas of society, including housing.
  • Both direct and indirect discrimination are prohibited — a neutral rental policy that disproportionately disadvantages a protected group may be unlawful.

When does it apply?

  • You are applying for rental housing or are a current tenant.
  • A landlord, letting agent, or housing provider refuses to rent to you, sets different terms, or treats you less favourably based on a protected characteristic.

What should you do?

  • Document the discriminatory conduct — save communications, advertisements, and witness accounts.
  • File a complaint with the Equality Complaints Committee (Kærunefnd jafnréttismála).
  • You may also pursue a claim through the courts.

What should you NOT do?

  • Don't assume discrimination is lawful — even private landlords are bound by anti-discrimination law.
  • Don't accept discriminatory terms — different deposit amounts or lease conditions based on nationality, for example, are unlawful.

More in Housing Rights

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Related Topics

Consumer RightsConsumer Complaint Process →Family LawParental Responsibility →
← Browse all Housing Rights

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