Understanding Fair Housing Testing Agencies in Delaware

If you’re renting in Delaware and worried about discrimination, understanding the resources and support available can make a big difference. Fair Housing laws exist to help ensure all Delaware tenants have access to safe, discrimination-free housing—regardless of race, color, religion, sex, disability, family status, or national origin. Delaware has government agencies dedicated to enforcing Fair Housing rights. This article explains how Fair Housing testing works, where to get help, and how enforcement agencies support renters like you.

What is Fair Housing Testing?

Fair Housing testing is a tool used by advocacy organizations and government agencies to uncover illegal housing discrimination. Testers—trained individuals—pose as renters and document how landlords or property managers treat them. This helps agencies collect evidence for investigations and make sure rental practices comply with the law.

Key Fair Housing Enforcement Agencies in Delaware

Several state and federal agencies oversee Fair Housing protections for Delaware tenants:

• Delaware Division of Human and Civil Rights (DDHCR) — handles housing discrimination complaints under state and federal law, conducts investigations, and provides outreach.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity — enforces federal Fair Housing laws, accepts complaints, and partners with state agencies.
• Local advocacy and nonprofit groups may conduct testing and provide referrals but are not official government enforcement bodies.

What Does the Delaware Division of Human and Civil Rights Do?

The DDHCR is Delaware’s primary agency for investigating Fair Housing complaints. It administers both federal and state Fair Housing laws, offering free assistance to renters who believe they’ve been discriminated against.

• Investigates discrimination claims
• Conducts or coordinates Fair Housing testing
• Works with HUD for joint enforcement
• Can order remedies, educational outreach, and sometimes penalties for violations

What Law Protects Delaware Renters?

Delaware renters are protected under the Delaware Fair Housing Act and the federal Fair Housing Act.^[1] These laws prohibit housing discrimination based on protected characteristics and provide a complaint process for renters who believe they’ve been treated unfairly.

How Delaware Renters Can Report Discrimination

If you experience or suspect discrimination in rental housing:

• Document what happened. Keep emails, texts, notes, and any related paperwork. Note dates and details.
• Contact the DDHCR or HUD to discuss your situation. Staff can help you determine if your experience may violate Fair Housing law.
• Submit a formal complaint using the appropriate government form (see below).

Official Forms for Reporting Housing Discrimination

• Delaware Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
  
  • Form Name: Delaware Division of Human and Civil Rights Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire
  • When to use: If you believe a landlord, property manager, lender, or real estate agent has discriminated against you in housing or rental services.
  • How it’s used: Fill out the form describing your situation and submit it to DDHCR online, by email, mail, or in person. Agency investigators will review your case, contact you for more information, and may begin an official investigation. For example, if you were denied an apartment after mentioning your family status, this form helps you begin the process.
  • Download the Delaware Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire (PDF)
• HUD Form 903 Online Complaint
  
  • Form Name: HUD Discrimination Complaint Form (Form 903)
  • When to use: If you want to file a housing discrimination complaint with the federal government (HUD).
  • How it’s used: Submit your details online or by mail. HUD will review and, if appropriate, will assign the case to its own staff or refer it to the state agency. For example, if you faced racial discrimination while seeking to rent anywhere in Delaware, this form starts the official process.
  • Submit a HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Online

Who Decides Housing Discrimination Cases in Delaware?

In Delaware, the official tribunal for Fair Housing matters is the Delaware Division of Human and Civil Rights.^[2] This agency investigates, makes legal findings, and can order remedies.

Quick Guide: How to File a Fair Housing Complaint in Delaware

• Contact DDHCR or HUD (as above) and ask if your situation qualifies.
• Fill out and submit the Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire or HUD Form 903.
• Provide all requested information and documents.
• Participate in the investigation—this may include interviews and letting testers examine evidence.
• Wait for the agency’s findings and respond if more information is needed.

This process is designed to be accessible; agencies can answer your questions at any step.

FAQ: Delaware Fair Housing Enforcement Agencies

1. How do I know if I’ve been discriminated against?
   Discrimination includes being treated differently in renting, leasing, or buying a home based on protected characteristics such as race, disability, or family status. If you suspect unfair treatment, reach out to the DDHCR for guidance.
2. What happens after I file a discrimination complaint?
   The agency reviews your complaint, investigates (which may involve Fair Housing testing), and can order remedies or refer your case for further legal action if a violation is found.
3. Is there a deadline for filing a Fair Housing complaint in Delaware?
   Yes, you should file within one year of the alleged discrimination for state and federal claims to ensure your rights are protected.
4. Can I get help if I don’t speak English well?
   Yes, the DDHCR and HUD provide translation and interpretation services to assist all renters regardless of language ability.
5. Are there fees or costs to file a Fair Housing complaint?
   No. Filing a complaint with the DDHCR or HUD is always free for renters.

Key Takeaways

• Delaware renters are protected by state and federal Fair Housing laws against discrimination
• The Delaware Division of Human and Civil Rights and HUD enforce these rights and offer complaint processes
• Clear, official forms and support services are available free of charge

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Delaware Division of Human and Civil Rights – Housing Discrimination Frequently Asked Questions (state help and complaints)
• DDHCR Compliance and Enforcement Information (forms and enforcement process info)
• HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (federal housing complaint support)
• For legal aid, visit the Legal Services Corporation of Delaware for free legal advice for qualified renters

---

1. Delaware Fair Housing Act, Title 6 Chapter 46
2. Delaware Division of Human and Civil Rights – Official Website

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations