Proving Discriminatory Screening by Landlords in Connecticut

Discriminatory screening can make it difficult for Connecticut renters to find a safe, fair place to live. Understanding what counts as housing discrimination and how to prove it can help renters take action against unfair practices. This article explains your rights, signs of discrimination, and how to collect evidence and file a complaint under Connecticut law.

What Counts as Discriminatory Screening in Connecticut?

Connecticut protects renters from discrimination in housing under both federal and state law. It is illegal for a landlord to reject your rental application, impose different terms, or treat you differently because of your race, color, national origin, sex, disability, familial status, religion, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or lawful source of income (like housing vouchers)^[1].

• Being denied a rental after disclosing a housing voucher
• Landlord only requiring extra paperwork from applicants of a certain ethnicity
• Receiving different application fees or requirements than other renters

Recognizing Red Flags for Discrimination

Some signs that you might have faced discriminatory screening include:

• Receiving inconsistent reasons for your denial
• Hearing negative remarks about your protected class
• Lack of advertised units after your background or income is revealed

How to Gather Evidence of Discriminatory Screening

Proving discrimination often relies on having clear, organized evidence. If you suspect unfair treatment, try to collect:

• Written communication with the landlord (emails, letters, texts)
• Copies of your rental application and any forms submitted
• Notes about conversations: date, time, who you spoke with, and what was said
• Advertisements showing the unit was still available after your denial
• Statements from witnesses who observed interactions

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Connecticut

The Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) is responsible for investigating housing discrimination complaints in Connecticut. CHRO enforces the Connecticut Fair Housing Act and oversees all state-level fair housing matters^[2].

Key Form: Housing Discrimination Complaint

• Form Name: CHRO Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire
• How it's used: If you believe you were denied housing or treated unfairly in the application process because of a protected characteristic, you begin by completing the CHRO Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire. This helps CHRO screen your complaint and start an investigation.
• Practical Example: You applied for a rental and were denied after mentioning your Section 8 voucher. You fill out the Intake Questionnaire, explaining what happened and attaching your documentation.

After review, if your complaint falls within CHRO jurisdiction, they may request you fill out their formal Complaint Form which initiates the legal investigation process.

For federal protections, you may also file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) using the HUD Fair Housing Complaint Form.

Action Steps for Renters

• Collect all relevant documents, forms, and communication
• Fill out the CHRO Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire
• Submit your completed form by mail, fax, or in person to the nearest CHRO office
• Await further instructions; CHRO may request additional information or a formal complaint form
• Follow up: Track your submission date and any reference number received

Understanding Connecticut Fair Housing Laws and Your Rights

Connecticut's protections for renters are covered by the Connecticut Landlord and Tenant Act and the Connecticut Fair Housing Act^[3]. These laws ensure landlords must treat all applicants fairly and are not allowed to make decisions based on protected characteristics or sources of income.

Understanding these provisions can help renters feel confident when confronting unfair housing practices.

FAQ: Proving and Reporting Discriminatory Screening in CT

1. What if my landlord uses a third-party screening company to deny my application?
   Third-party screening companies must also comply with fair housing laws. If discrimination happens because of screening criteria or policies, you can still file a complaint with CHRO or HUD and include details about the third-party process.
2. Can I file a discrimination complaint if I was denied because of my income type?
   Yes. Connecticut bans discrimination based on lawful source of income, including housing vouchers, child support, or alimony. Denials based on these reasons can be reported to CHRO.
3. How long do I have to file a housing discrimination complaint?
   In Connecticut, renters usually have 180 days from the date of discrimination to file with CHRO, but it’s best to act quickly.
4. Will filing a discrimination complaint affect my current tenancy or future rentals?
   Filing a complaint should not affect your rights as a renter. Landlords are prohibited from retaliating against applicants who assert their fair housing rights.
5. What happens after I submit my complaint?
   CHRO will review your complaint, may request further details, and could open an investigation if they find evidence supporting your claim. You will be notified of all steps along the way.

Key Takeaways for CT Renters

• Connecticut law protects against discriminatory screening based on many personal characteristics and income types
• Collecting documents and promptly reporting concerns helps strengthen your case
• The CHRO is the main agency for filing fair housing complaints in Connecticut

Staying informed and knowing your rights can help you secure fair access to housing and prevent illegal discrimination.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO): Main state body for fair housing, complaint forms, and guidance
• Connecticut Fair Housing Act (Official Text)
• Connecticut Department of Housing: Information on tenant rights and resources
• HUD Fair Housing Resources: Federal complaint process and protections
• Connecticut Legal Aid – Housing Discrimination Help

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1. See Connecticut Fair Housing Act, Chapter 814c.
2. Official tribunal: Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO).
3. For general tenancy rules, see Connecticut Landlord and Tenant Act, Chapter 830.

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