Filing a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Connecticut

Every renter in Connecticut has the right to fair and equal treatment when searching for or living in rental housing. If you believe you've experienced discrimination—whether based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, family status, or other protected characteristics—Connecticut and federal law provide clear steps for reporting these violations. This guide breaks down the process of filing a housing discrimination complaint in Connecticut and what renters need to know to protect their rights.

What is Housing Discrimination?

Housing discrimination happens when a landlord, property manager, or real estate professional treats someone unfairly in rental housing, selling, leasing, or other housing services because of belonging to a legally protected group.

• Protected classes in Connecticut include race, color, national origin, sex, disability, familial status, religion, marital status, age, lawful source of income, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and veteran status¹.

If you are denied housing, quoted different terms, harassed, or treated unequally due to any of these factors, you may be facing illegal discrimination.

Your Legal Protections

Connecticut's Fair Housing Act (Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 814c) and the federal Fair Housing Act both protect renters from discrimination. The Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) is the official agency responsible for enforcing these laws in the state.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Connecticut

Renters can file a complaint with the CHRO, which will investigate the claim and take appropriate action if a violation is found. Below are the steps and important details for Connecticut renters.

Step 1: Gather Documentation

• Collect any written communications, rental ads, applications, or notes about conversations
• Record the dates and details of what happened

Detailed records help support your complaint and make the process more efficient.

Step 2: Complete the Official Complaint Form

• Form Name: CHRO Intake Questionnaire – Housing
• When to use it: This form is for any renter who believes they have been discriminated against in the rental, sale, or lease of housing.
• How to use it: Fill out the form with details about the incident, the parties involved, and what type of discrimination occurred. For example, if you were denied an apartment because you receive Section 8 housing vouchers, you should describe what happened and attach any supporting documentation.
• Download the CHRO Housing Intake Questionnaire (PDF)

Step 3: Submit Your Complaint

• Submit the completed form by email (to CHRO.Housing@ct.gov), by mail, or in person at a CHRO regional office. Addresses are listed on the last page of the form.
• Complaints must generally be filed within 180 days of the alleged discrimination.

The CHRO will contact you to complete an official sworn complaint (called an "Affidavit of Illegal Discriminatory Practice"). They may collect more details as part of their review.

Step 4: CHRO Investigation and Resolution

• After your complaint is accepted, the CHRO will investigate the matter. This can include interviews, requests for evidence, or attempts at mediation.
• If discrimination is found, the CHRO may order changes, award damages, or take other legal steps.
• You will be informed of the outcome, and further appeals are available if needed.

For more details, visit the official CHRO filing instructions.

What Happens After Submitting the Complaint?

The CHRO will first assess if your complaint meets the requirements. If so, the investigation will proceed, normally within several weeks. Mediation may be offered to quickly resolve the issue, but you are not required to accept any settlement.

Other Ways to File

You can also file a federal complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) online or call 1-800-669-9777. However, if you file with CHRO, they will coordinate with federal agencies as needed.

What to Expect During the CHRO Process

• Papers and evidence may be requested from you and the landlord or housing provider
• You may be asked to participate in interviews or mediation meetings
• If the case cannot be settled, a formal hearing may take place at CHRO

CHRO decisions can sometimes be appealed in state court.

1. Can I file a complaint anonymously?
   While you can seek advice without giving your name, a formal complaint to CHRO requires your information and a signature on an affidavit.
2. Is there a deadline to file a complaint in Connecticut?
   Yes, you must generally file your complaint within 180 days of the alleged discrimination.
3. What evidence should I provide?
   Save all emails, texts, lease documents, photos, and any notes about what was said and when. More evidence improves your chances.
4. Will filing a complaint protect me from retaliation?
   Connecticut law prohibits landlords from retaliating against you for filing a complaint. If you experience retaliation, it should be reported immediately.
5. Can I get help filling out the CHRO form?
   Yes, you can contact the CHRO or local fair housing groups for assistance in completing and submitting your paperwork.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) – Main site
• CHRO Complaint and Intake Information
• Connecticut Fair Housing Center – Offers education and support for renters facing discrimination
• Connecticut General Statutes - Chapter 814c: Discriminatory Housing Practices
• HUD Online Housing Discrimination Complaint (Federal)

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1. Connecticut General Statutes, Chapter 814c, Discriminatory Housing Practices (discrimination protections)
2. CHRO official complaint process and forms (files and instructions)
3. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: File a Discrimination Complaint

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