Filing a Housing Discrimination Complaint in DC

If you believe you have experienced housing discrimination in the District of Columbia, you have powerful protections under both local and federal law. Knowing how to assert these rights is essential to keeping your home safe and fair. This article explains what housing discrimination looks like in DC, how to recognize if it's happening to you, and—most importantly—the step-by-step process to file a complaint with the right agency.

Understanding Fair Housing Protections in DC

DC renters are protected from discrimination under the District of Columbia Human Rights Act (DCHRA) and the federal Fair Housing Act. This means a landlord or housing provider cannot treat you unfairly based on certain characteristics.

What Counts as Housing Discrimination?

• Denying you a rental unit because of your race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or family status (plus DC-specific protections like source of income, sexual orientation, and more).
• Imposing different rent amounts, lease terms, or refusing to make reasonable accommodations for a disability.
• Advertising with a preference or limitation based on a protected characteristic.

To learn more, visit the DC Office of Human Rights Fair Housing page.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in DC

Renters who believe their housing rights have been violated can file a complaint with the DC Office of Human Rights (OHR) or with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In most cases, start with OHR to ensure your complaint is handled under DC law's broader protections.

Step-by-Step: Filing with the DC Office of Human Rights

• Step 1. Gather documentation: Save any emails, texts, ads, letters, or notes that show possible discrimination.
• Step 2. Complete the required form:
  
  • Form Name: Discrimination Complaint Questionnaire (Intake Form)
  • When to use: Use this if you want to report housing discrimination to OHR. Example: If your landlord refuses to rent to you because of your voucher or disability, complete this form describing your experience.
  • How to submit: You can complete the form online, by email, mail, fax, or in person at the OHR office. See their How to File a Complaint page for instructions.
• Step 3. OHR will review your intake form and may contact you for more information.
• Step 4. If accepted, OHR will formally investigate, and both sides will have a chance to share their side. Resolution may involve settlement, mediation, or a legal hearing.

Alternatively, you can file with HUD using their online complaint form, but for DC-specific cases, OHR is recommended as your first step.

What Happens After Filing?

After you submit your complaint to the DC Office of Human Rights:

• An OHR intake officer will contact you to discuss your claim and may request more documents or details.
• If your claim qualifies, the landlord or housing provider will be notified and given a chance to respond.
• The investigation may include interviews, reviewing records, and mediation or a public hearing, depending on the facts.

The final outcome may include ending discriminatory practices, compensation, and sometimes penalties for the housing provider.

Relevant DC Housing Tribunal

The main agency handling residential discrimination complaints is the DC Office of Human Rights (OHR). For broader landlord-tenant disputes, including some discrimination claims, renters can also look to the DC Superior Court’s Landlord and Tenant Branch.

Key Legislation Protecting Renters

• District of Columbia Human Rights Act
• Rental Housing Act of 1985
• Federal Fair Housing Act

Frequently Asked Questions About Filing a Complaint

1. What is the deadline to file a housing discrimination complaint in DC?
   Generally, you must file within one year from when the discrimination occurred.
2. Can I file a complaint if I believe I've been discriminated against before signing a lease?
   Yes. Fair housing laws protect you during all stages—from applying for housing to ongoing tenancy.
3. What if my landlord tries to evict me after I file a complaint?
   It is illegal for landlords to retaliate against you for asserting your fair housing rights. You can report retaliation to OHR as well.
4. Does it cost anything to file a housing discrimination complaint in DC?
   No, filing with OHR or HUD is completely free for renters.

Conclusion: Your Rights and Next Steps

• DC renters are protected by strong local and federal anti-discrimination laws.
• Filing a complaint starts with gathering evidence and submitting the Intake Form to OHR.
• Official investigation and support from DC agencies are available at no cost to renters.

Standing up to discrimination is serious, but you do not have to do it alone. There are dedicated agencies ready to support your rights and help you live free from bias.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• DC Office of Human Rights (OHR): Main agency handling housing discrimination complaints. Phone: (202) 727-4559
• HUD: Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity
• Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA): Tenant education, advocacy, and support. Phone: (202) 719-6560
• DC Superior Court Landlord & Tenant Branch
• Read the DC Human Rights Act for detailed protections.

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1. District of Columbia Human Rights Act
2. DC Office of Human Rights: File a Complaint
3. OHR Housing Discrimination Intake Form (PDF)
4. Federal Fair Housing Act

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