Filing a Landlord Complaint: Alaska Renters’ Guide

Renters in Alaska have clear rights and responsibilities protected by state law. If you're experiencing persistent problems with your landlord—such as unresolved repairs, illegal entry, wrongful eviction, or discrimination—knowing how to file a complaint in Alaska can help you protect your home and peace of mind.

Your Rights as a Renter in Alaska

Alaska’s Uniform Residential Landlord & Tenant Act governs most rental situations, specifying your right to safe living conditions, fair treatment, and due process. It also outlines landlord responsibilities, such as timely repairs and proper notice for entry or eviction.^[1]

When Should You File a Complaint Against Your Landlord?

If your landlord fails to address issues after you’ve notified them in writing, or if your basic rights are being violated, you have options for further action. Common renter concerns include:

• Failure to make necessary repairs (like heating, water, or electricity issues)
• Improper or illegal eviction notices
• Unreturned security deposit after moving out
• Discrimination based on race, gender, disability, or other protected status
• Unsafe or unsanitary living conditions

It’s important to gather documentation (photos, letters, emails, notices) before making a formal complaint.

How to File a Complaint in Alaska

The main state agencies overseeing landlord-tenant matters are the Alaska Department of Law, Consumer Protection Unit and the Alaska State Commission for Human Rights for discrimination cases.

1. Attempt to Resolve Directly

• Send a detailed, written request to your landlord describing the problem and requesting a fix. Keep a copy for your records.
• If there’s no response or your issue isn’t resolved promptly, proceed to the next steps.

2. File a Complaint with the Alaska Department of Law

If you believe your landlord has violated Alaska’s rental laws or failed to provide a habitable home, you can submit a complaint using the:

• Consumer Complaint Form (Alaska Department of Law)
  Download Consumer Complaint Form (PDF)
  When to use: If your landlord has failed to make repairs, withheld your security deposit without justification, or taken retaliatory action after you exercised your rights.
  How to use: Complete the form, describe your issue in detail, attach copies of your correspondence and photos, and submit by mail or email as directed on the form.

3. File a Discrimination Complaint

• Discrimination Intake Questionnaire (Alaska State Commission for Human Rights)
  Download Discrimination Intake Questionnaire
  When to use: If you believe your landlord discriminated against you because of race, color, national origin, age, sex, marital status, disability, or pregnancy.
  How to use: Fill out and submit the form through the Commission’s process, providing any supporting documents.

4. For Serious or Ongoing Legal Issues: Consider Court

• If informal efforts and state complaints do not resolve the issue, you can file a case in Alaska’s local District Court. This is common for security deposit disputes, wrongful eviction, or significant damages.
• You may use the Complaint Form (CIV-730) to begin certain small claims legal actions.
• Learn about the process at the Alaska Court System: Landlord & Tenant Help center.

Which Agency Handles Tenant Complaints?

In Alaska, official complaints for unfair or illegal rental practices are received by the Alaska Department of Law Consumer Protection Unit. Discrimination issues are handled by the Alaska State Commission for Human Rights. For most legal disputes, the Alaska District Court handles landlord-tenant lawsuits.

Key Action Steps to Take

• Document your issue and communication with your landlord.
• Complete the appropriate complaint or intake form based on your situation.
• Submit your complaint to the correct agency and keep confirmation for your records.
• Consider mediation or legal action if the complaint is not resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions: Alaska Renters’ Complaints

1. What problems can I file a complaint about in Alaska?
   Common issues include unaddressed repairs, illegal evictions, unreturned deposits, unsafe housing, or discrimination.
2. Will my landlord be notified if I file a complaint?
   Yes, most agencies will notify your landlord and provide them a chance to respond. Retaliation is illegal under Alaska law.
3. Can I remain in my apartment while a complaint is processed?
   In most cases, yes. You do not have to move out while an agency reviews your complaint, unless you have been lawfully evicted by a court.
4. What if my landlord tries to evict me after I file a complaint?
   Alaska law prohibits landlords from retaliating against tenants who assert their rights or file complaints. Document any attempts at retaliation and include them in your complaint.
5. How long does it take to resolve a landlord complaint?
   Timing varies by agency and the type of issue but expect several weeks up to a few months for complex matters.

Conclusion: What Alaska Renters Should Remember

• Understand your rights under Alaska’s rental laws before filing a complaint.
• Use official complaint forms and follow agency procedures for best results.
• Legal support is available if you face landlord retaliation or unresolved serious issues.

Clear communication and timely use of official resources can help Alaska renters protect their rights and homes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Alaska Department of Law – Landlord/Tenant Resources (complaints, booklets, and contacts)
• Alaska State Commission for Human Rights (housing discrimination complaints)
• Alaska Court System: Landlord & Tenant Self-Help Center
• Alaska Legal Services Corporation (free and low-cost legal support)

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1. See Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord & Tenant Act, Alaska Statutes Title 34, Chapter 03 (current as of 2024).
2. Alaska Department of Law: Landlord & Tenant Resources.
3. Alaska State Commission for Human Rights: Complaint Process.
4. Alaska Court System Landlord/Tenant Help.
5. Consumer Complaint Form (PDF), Alaska Department of Law.

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