A recent lawsuit filed in Washington, D.C., has drawn attention to allegations of housing discrimination and false advertising by one of the nation’s largest real estate investment trusts. The Equal Rights Center (ERC) has filed a complaint against AvalonBay Communities, claiming that the company’s AVA NoMa property discriminated against tenants using housing vouchers. The case, which may have broad implications for fair housing enforcement in the city, underscores the importance of consulting with our Washington, D.C. discrimination lawyer when facing issues of bias in housing or employment.
According to the complaint, AvalonBay and its subsidiary, Archstone North Capitol Hill 2 LP, are accused of misrepresenting the number of legal bedrooms at their 438-unit property in the NoMa neighborhood. The lawsuit claims that nearly half of the one-bedroom units, half of the two-bedrooms, and all three-bedroom units include at least one sleeping area without a window—making those rooms noncompliant with D.C. Housing Code Standards. These codes require that all bedrooms have windows or approved glass panels to allow natural light for safety and habitability.
The ERC alleges that AvalonBay’s actions made the apartments effectively unrentable for tenants using housing vouchers. Under District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) rules, voucher-assisted units must pass inspection before approval. A two-bedroom apartment with one noncompliant room would only qualify as a one-bedroom unit during inspection. As a result, the listed rent for a two-bedroom apartment would be deemed excessive for voucher use, leaving those tenants unable to lease the unit.
The lawsuit further claims that AvalonBay’s property management team knew about these issues as early as 2020. During testing, ERC representatives posing as renters were allegedly told that while housing vouchers were accepted, they would not be approved for many of the building’s units. The complaint accuses AvalonBay of violating the District’s consumer protection and anti-discrimination laws by falsely advertising unit types and discouraging voucher holders from applying.
The ERC is seeking a judgment requiring AvalonBay to correct its advertising and a court injunction to prevent future violations. The organization argues that these practices reflect a pattern of systemic discrimination against low-income residents, disproportionately affecting communities of color. Anyone facing similar discriminatory housing barriers can benefit from speaking with our Washington, D.C. discrimination attorneys who understand the nuances of fair housing and civil rights laws.
How We Assist In Discrimination Cases
At Eric Siegel Law, we represent individuals and organizations who have faced unfair treatment in violation of local or federal anti-discrimination statutes. Whether the issue arises in the workplace, a housing arrangement, or a public accommodation, our civil rights attorneys are dedicated to holding wrongdoers accountable. We handle cases involving employment bias, wrongful termination, and unfair treatment based on protected characteristics.
Discrimination does not always occur openly—it can take the form of misleading practices, exclusionary policies, or biased decision-making. That’s why working with our workplace discrimination attorneys can make a meaningful difference. We assess each situation carefully to determine whether unlawful conduct has occurred and how best to pursue justice through negotiation, administrative action, or litigation.
Cases like the AvalonBay lawsuit highlight how discrimination can intersect with housing access, financial security, and personal dignity. Residents who are denied fair treatment—whether due to economic status, race, or other protected factors—deserve an employment discrimination lawyer who understands both the law and the human impact behind it. At our firm, we have over 30 years of combined experience handling cases involving discrimination. That’s why our clients choose us to handle their legal claims.
If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly or discriminated against in housing or employment, contact Eric Siegel Law today to speak with our trusted Washington, D.C. discrimination lawyers. We have a 24/7 live call answering service, so we’re available at any time of day or night to answer your questions. Our team is committed to helping you pursue fair treatment and rightful compensation through compassionate, skilled legal representation.