Filing a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Florida

If you’re a renter in Florida who believes you’ve experienced discrimination based on factors like race, disability, or family status, it’s important to know your rights and the steps you can take to protect yourself. Florida and federal fair housing laws offer strong protections, and several agencies are available to help you report suspected housing discrimination. This guide details each step, explains the official forms, and connects you to the agencies that handle these complaints.

What Counts as Housing Discrimination?

Under the federal Fair Housing Act and the Florida Fair Housing Act, it’s illegal for landlords, property managers, or housing providers to discriminate against you because of:

• Race or color
• National origin
• Religion
• Sex
• Disability
• Familial status (having children under 18 or being pregnant)

Examples of illegal acts can include refusing to rent to you, setting different terms, denying reasonable accommodations for a disability, or harassing you based on a protected characteristic.^[1]

Who Handles Housing Discrimination Complaints in Florida?

There are two main agencies that handle these cases:

• The Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) is the official state agency responsible for enforcing the Florida Fair Housing Act.
• The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) also accepts complaints under the federal Fair Housing Act.

You are allowed to file with either agency. They often work together to process and investigate complaints.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Florida

Filing a complaint is designed to be accessible, even if you don’t have a lawyer. Here’s a summary:

1. Gather Documentation

• Write down details of what happened (dates, people involved, what was said or done).
• Collect emails, letters, notices, or any related recordings or photos.
• Identify which protected characteristic you believe was the reason for discrimination.

2. Choose Where to File

• State agency: File with the Florida Commission on Human Relations.
• Federal agency: File with HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity.

3. File Your Complaint: Official Forms

• Florida Commission on Human Relations Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
  Housing Discrimination Complaint Intake Questionnaire (FCHR 017)
  Use this form if you want to start a complaint with FCHR. Complete the form and submit it online, by email, mail, or fax. For example, a renter denied an apartment due to disability can fill out this questionnaire to begin an investigation by FCHR.
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
  HUD Form 903.1 (Housing Discrimination Information Form)
  Use this federal form if you prefer to file with HUD. HUD allows you to file online, or submit via mail or email. For example, a tenant who experiences discriminatory advertising from a landlord can use this form to report it to federal authorities.

4. Investigation and Resolution

• After your complaint is accepted, an investigation begins. Both sides are contacted.
• You may be offered mediation or conciliation to try to settle the matter.
• If unresolved, a hearing may be held with the Florida Commission on Human Relations or HUD, who can order remedies if discrimination is proven.^[2]

Most cases are resolved within several months, but timelines can vary.

Your Rights Under Florida Law

The Florida Fair Housing Act (Chapter 760, Part II, Florida Statutes) protects renters from discrimination and outlines the process for complaints. This is in addition to federal protections.

1. What happens after I file a housing discrimination complaint in Florida?
   After your filing, the agency will review the complaint. Both you and the housing provider are contacted for details. There may be an investigation, possible mediation, and, if no agreement, a formal hearing. You can stay updated through the process and provide further evidence if needed.
2. Is there a time limit for filing a housing discrimination complaint?
   Yes. Typically, you should file within one year of the discrimination incident to ensure your case is eligible for investigation by FCHR or HUD.
3. Can I be evicted for filing a complaint?
   Retaliation for filing a fair housing complaint is illegal. If you believe you’re facing eviction or other actions because you exercised your rights, notify the investigating agency right away.
4. Do I need an attorney to file a complaint?
   No, an attorney is not required. State and federal agencies accept complaints from renters directly and offer support through the process. However, you may seek legal help if you wish.
5. What types of housing are covered by fair housing laws?
   Most rental units are covered, except in limited cases such as owner-occupied buildings with four or fewer units. Public and subsidized housing, as well as most private rentals, are all protected.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Florida and federal law protect renters from housing discrimination based on several protected characteristics.
• Complaints can be filed with the Florida Commission on Human Relations or HUD using official government forms.
• State agencies will investigate complaints for free and may offer mediation or other remedies if discrimination occurred.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida Commission on Human Relations: File a Complaint (state agency)
• HUD Fair Housing: Submit a Complaint (federal)
• Florida Office of Fair Housing: Education and contact information
• Legal aid organizations, such as Florida Legal Services, offer free or low-cost assistance to renters dealing with discrimination

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1. About the Federal Fair Housing Act – U.S. Department of Justice
2. Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR): Official Portal
3. Florida Fair Housing Act – Florida Statutes Chapter 760 Part II

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