Filing a Housing Discrimination Complaint in California

If you believe you’ve experienced unfair treatment due to your race, disability, family status, or other protected characteristics while renting in California, you have options. California law protects renters from discrimination and provides clear steps for reporting it. This guide will walk you through how to file a housing discrimination complaint in California, what forms you'll need, and where to find help.

Understanding Housing Discrimination in California

Housing discrimination happens when a landlord, property manager, or housing provider treats someone unfairly because of characteristics protected under federal and California state laws. Protected classes include, but are not limited to:

• Race, color, national origin
• Religion
• Sex, gender identity, sexual orientation
• Disability
• Familial status (children under 18)
• Source of income, marital status, or ancestry

In California, these protections come from the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and related federal laws like the Fair Housing Act.^[1]

Where to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

Most California tenants will file with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD), which investigates and enforces state discrimination laws. You also have the right to file at the federal level with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Preparing Your Complaint: What to Gather

Before you submit your complaint, it’s helpful to collect:

• Documentation of the incident(s) (emails, letters, texts, photos)
• Contact information for witnesses or others involved
• A clear timeline of what happened

This will help investigators understand your situation more clearly.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in California

You can file your complaint online, by mail, or over the phone. The main form for renters is the California Civil Rights Department's Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (CRD 110).

• Form Name: Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (CRD 110)
• When to Use: Complete this form if you believe you have been discriminated against in rental, lease, or purchase of housing in California due to a protected characteristic.
• Find It Officially Here: CRD Housing Discrimination Intake Form Instructions
• Example: If a landlord refuses to rent to you because of your disability or because you have children, you would use this form to start your complaint with the CRD.

After you file, the Civil Rights Department may investigate, attempt to resolve the case through mediation, or allow you to pursue the matter in court. Filing is free and you do not need an attorney to begin the process.

Common Steps in the Complaint Process

• File your complaint as soon as possible (ideally within one year of the discriminatory act)
• The CRD reviews your claim and may contact you for more information
• The other party (landlord, property manager) will be given a chance to respond
• CRD may propose mediation to resolve the issue
• If no agreement is reached, CRD will investigate further and may issue a formal decision or right-to-sue notice

For more details, see the official Complainant’s Guide to Filing a Complaint (PDF).

What Laws and Agencies Protect California Renters?

• California Civil Rights Department (CRD) (formerly DFEH)
• California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) — Government Code Sections 12900–12996
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

FAQ: Filing Housing Discrimination Complaints in California

1. Who can file a housing discrimination complaint in California?
   Any renter, homebuyer, or applicant who believes they have faced discrimination in housing based on a protected characteristic can file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department or HUD.
2. Does it cost money to file a housing discrimination complaint?
   No. Filing a complaint with the CRD or HUD is free and does not require you to hire an attorney.
3. What happens after I file a complaint?
   The agency will review your complaint, investigate if needed, and may offer mediation. If they find evidence of discrimination, they may order remedies or allow you to take your case further.
4. How long do I have to file my complaint?
   You should file your complaint within one year of the last act of discrimination for the best chance of success.
5. Is my immigration status important when filing a housing discrimination complaint?
   No. All persons in California are protected by fair housing laws regardless of immigration status.

Key Takeaways for California Renters

• If you believe you’ve faced housing discrimination, you have strong rights under state and federal law.
• The California Civil Rights Department provides an official, straightforward process to report concerns.
• Your complaint and your participation are protected by law—retaliation is illegal.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• California Civil Rights Department Contact Page – For online, phone, or in-person help filing a complaint.
• HUD: File a Housing Discrimination Complaint – Federal complaint process for tenants in California.
• California Courts Self-Help: Housing – Information and resources about housing rights and court processes.
• LawHelpCA: Fair Housing (Government Supported) – General fair housing information for California residents.

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1. California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), Government Code §12900–12996
2. California Civil Rights Department — Complaint Process
3. HUD – Housing Discrimination Complaint Process

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