Familial Status Discrimination: Colorado Tenant Rights Explained

Feeling treated unfairly because you have children, are pregnant, or live with family? Colorado law and federal fair housing rules protect renters from discrimination based on familial status. This article outlines your rights, what landlords can and cannot do, and practical steps to take if you suspect discrimination in rental housing.

What Is Familial Status Discrimination?

Familial status discrimination means treating someone unfairly in housing situations because they are:

• Pregnant
• Living with one or more children under 18 (these can be biological, adopted, foster, or in your legal custody)
• Seeking custody of a child

This is illegal under the federal Fair Housing Act and reinforced by Colorado's own Colorado Fair Housing Act. Landlords and property managers cannot refuse to rent, impose different terms, or otherwise disadvantage you because of your family status^[1].

Examples of Familial Status Discrimination in Colorado Rentals

• Refusing to rent to families with children
• Advertising "adults only" or "no children" housing (unless it’s a housing community legally designated for older persons)
• Charging higher security deposits for tenants with kids
• Imposing special rules that only apply to families with children (such as restricting access to common areas)
• Evicting families when a child is born or moves in

These actions are prohibited by Federal Fair Housing regulations and Colorado law.

Your Rights as a Renter in Colorado

• Equal treatment in all aspects of renting, from advertising and applications to renewing leases
• Right to request reasonable accommodations that allow your family to safely use your home
• Freedom from harassment or eviction based on pregnancy or children

The official body that handles housing discrimination complaints in Colorado is the Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD). Federal issues can also be reported to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

How to Report Familial Status Discrimination

If you suspect you have experienced familial status discrimination in Colorado, you can take action. It’s important to document everything, collect copies of written communications, and save any discriminatory advertisements or lease terms.

Which Forms to Use and How to File

• Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (CCRD)
  Colorado Civil Rights Division Complaint Form
  How to use it: Complete this form if you wish to file a complaint about discrimination (including familial status) with CCRD. For example, if a landlord denies your rental application after learning you’re pregnant, you can use this form. You may file online or download a PDF to submit by mail.
• HUD Form 903 Online Complaint
  HUD Fair Housing Discrimination Complaint Form 903
  How to use it: Use this federal form to report housing discrimination nationally. It is useful if you believe the issue impacts federal protections.

After you submit a complaint, CCRD will review your case and contact you for more details if needed. They may seek a resolution or investigate further. While your complaint is being processed, do not stop paying rent or breach your lease, as this can hurt your case.

Tip: Keep a personal record of all correspondence with your landlord, noting dates, times, and any witnesses. Written documentation is vital if your case moves forward.

Relevant Legislation and Protections

Your rights are protected under both:

• The Colorado Fair Housing Act (see Colorado Revised Statutes § 24-34-502)
• The federal Fair Housing Act

Both forbid housing discrimination based on familial status and set procedures for complaint resolution.^[1][2]

What to Expect: The CCRD Process

The Colorado Civil Rights Division investigates housing discrimination complaints impartially. Here’s an overview:

• Intake: File the official form with evidence.
• Screening: CCRD determines if the law covers your case.
• Investigation: Both sides submit additional evidence. CCRD may try mediation.
• Finding: CCRD rules if discrimination likely occurred. Violators may have to change policies, allow you to rent, or pay damages.

Throughout the process, both renters and landlords have the right to present evidence and explain their perspective.

FAQ: Familial Status Discrimination for Colorado Renters

1. Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I have children?
   No. Colorado and federal law prohibit landlords from refusing to rent based on the presence or expectation of children, unless the property qualifies as "housing for older persons."
2. Are landlords allowed to charge higher deposits to families with kids?
   No, charging higher deposits or rent based solely on familial status is considered discrimination and is illegal.
3. Is advertising "adults only" apartments allowed in Colorado?
   Generally no, unless the property is a qualified senior community. Otherwise, such advertising violates fair housing laws.
4. How quickly must I file a housing discrimination complaint?
   In Colorado, you must file with the CCRD within one year of the alleged discrimination.
5. Who investigates familial status discrimination complaints in Colorado?
   The Colorado Civil Rights Division is the agency responsible for investigating housing discrimination claims.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• You have the right to seek any housing, without unfair treatment due to pregnancy or family status.
• File a complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division using their official form if you suffer discrimination.
• Keep thorough records and act promptly—there are strict filing deadlines.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD) – Main housing discrimination agency
• Colorado Fair Housing Act (full text)
• HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity – Federal fair housing support
• Colorado General Assembly – Official legislation portal

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1. Colorado Fair Housing Act, C.R.S. § 24-34-502
2. 24 CFR Part 100 – HUD Fair Housing Regulations

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