W. Va. Code §§ 16B-18-1 to 16B-18-21 § 16B-18-2
Declaration of policy.
Operative Text
It is the policy of the State of West Virginia to provide, within Constitutional limitations, for fair housing throughout the state.
West Virginia Code § 16B-18-2 establishes the state's foundational commitment to fair housing as a matter of public policy. The provision declares that West Virginia will work to ensure fair housing access throughout the state, subject to the boundaries set by the Constitution. This is a policy declaration rather than an operational rule, meaning it sets the overarching purpose and intent behind the broader West Virginia Fair Housing Act.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Section § 16B-18-2 of the West Virginia Fair Housing Act signals that the state has made fair housing a core policy priority, which shapes how all subsequent provisions in Chapter 16B, Article 18 are interpreted and enforced. Property owners and managers operating in West Virginia generally align their practices — such as advertising, tenant screening, and lease terms — with this declared commitment to fair housing. Understanding that this policy declaration underpins the entire Act can help operators appreciate the spirit behind the more specific requirements that follow.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
West Virginia Code § 16B-18-2 reflects the state's broad commitment to ensuring that all residents have access to fair housing, and it serves as the foundation for the more specific protections found throughout Chapter 16B, Article 18. Tenants who believe they have experienced housing discrimination in West Virginia may find that this policy declaration supports the context in which their rights are defined. General enforcement paths can include filing a complaint with a relevant fair housing agency or consulting a tenant-rights or fair housing organization familiar with West Virginia law.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 26, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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