Under what condition may a landlord legally refuse to rent to a prospective tenant?

A landlord may legally refuse to rent to a prospective tenant if the tenant has ever been convicted of selling illegal drugs because this can be considered a legitimate concern for the landlord regarding the safety and welfare of other tenants and the property itself. Such a conviction might indicate a history of illegal behavior that could be perceived as a risk to the community. Furthermore, many landlords conduct background checks that may disclose criminal history, including drug-related offenses, which can inform their decision on whether to lease the property.

In contrast, the other options may involve considerations that are not legally defensible grounds for refusing rental. For instance, refusing to rent based solely on a prospective tenant having a pet could be discriminatory if not outlined in rental policies established in advance. Similarly, not having a job does not automatically disqualify a tenant, especially if they can demonstrate other reliable sources of income. Additionally, a tenant being a student does not constitute a valid reason for denial; as long as they can provide proof of ability to pay rent, students are generally protected under fair housing laws.