Florida LGBTQ+ Renter Rights: Housing Discrimination Protections

Understanding LGBTQ+ housing protections is key for renters in Florida who want a safe, fair, and welcoming home. This guide explains your rights under federal and state law, what to do if you believe you've faced discrimination, and where to get support. Whether you're renting an apartment, house, or mobile home, knowing the resources and laws available can help you advocate for fair treatment, no matter your sexual orientation or gender identity.

LGBTQ+ Housing Protections in Florida: What Are Your Rights?

All renters in Florida are protected from housing discrimination by federal law, and some local ordinances provide extra safeguards. The federal Fair Housing Act outlaws discrimination based on sex, which, as clarified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), includes sexual orientation and gender identity.^[1]

• Landlords cannot: Refuse to rent, raise prices, or treat you differently because you are LGBTQ+.
• Making derogatory comments or creating a hostile environment based on LGBTQ+ status may also violate the law.
• Retaliation is illegal if you've reported or complained about discrimination.

Florida State Law and Local Ordinances

Currently, Florida does not have a statewide law explicitly protecting LGBTQ+ renters beyond federal coverage. However, many Florida counties and cities—including Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, and Orlando—have their own human rights ordinances that include sexual orientation and gender identity. Check with your local government to see if additional protections apply in your area.

Recognizing Housing Discrimination Against LGBTQ+ Renters

• Being denied the opportunity to apply for or lease a property because you are LGBTQ+
• Sudden rent increases or stricter rules targeted only at LGBTQ+ tenants
• Harassment or threats by landlords, property managers, or neighbors because of your orientation or gender identity
• Advertising specifying LGBTQ+ tenants are not welcome

If you believe you’ve experienced housing discrimination, you have the right to file a formal complaint.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Florida

Florida renters can file housing discrimination complaints through either the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or the Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR), which is the state’s official body for handling housing discrimination cases.

• Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR): Official FCHR site

Official Complaint Forms

• FCHR Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
  • When to use: If you believe you’ve been discriminated against in housing based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected class, within the state of Florida.
  • How to use: Complete the official Housing Discrimination Complaint Form—either online or as a PDF—and submit it directly to FCHR. You will need to explain what happened, provide your contact details, and possibly attach evidence.
  • Download the FCHR Complaint Form
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (Form 903)
  • When to use: For cases involving federal protections, or if you prefer to file through the U.S. government. It’s also used when your area does not have a local anti-discrimination agency.
  • How to use: Complete Form 903 online, by mail, or over the phone with HUD. You can describe your situation, submit evidence, and get updates on your case.
  • File a HUD Complaint (Form 903)

What Happens After You File a Complaint?

After submitting your complaint, the agency will review it, may ask for more details, and could begin an investigation. You might be asked for an interview or to provide documents or evidence. The agency will attempt mediation before any further action. If they find discrimination occurred, they can help resolve the issue with your landlord, which may include stopping the discrimination and sometimes awarding damages.

Florida Residential Tenancy Law and Important Contacts

Florida’s main tenancy rules are found in the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Fla. Stat. §§ 83.40 – 83.683).^[2] All renters are covered by these laws, including provisions for repairs, privacy, and notice periods.

• For disputes or to learn more about your rights, visit the Florida Commission on Human Relations.
• You may want to consult their Housing & Fair Housing FAQs for further information.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my Florida landlord refuse to rent to me because I am LGBTQ+?
   No. Under federal law and many local Florida ordinances, landlords cannot refuse to rent to someone because of sexual orientation or gender identity.
2. What should I do if I face LGBTQ+ discrimination when renting in Florida?
   Document everything and file a complaint with the Florida Commission on Human Relations or HUD. Forms and links are provided above.
3. Do Florida rental laws protect me from harassment by neighbors due to being LGBTQ+?
   If harassment is severe and the landlord does nothing after being notified, this may be a violation of fair housing laws. You can file a complaint with FCHR or HUD.
4. Are there any official forms I must use to file a housing discrimination complaint?
   Yes, use the FCHR Housing Discrimination Complaint Form or the HUD Form 903. Both are linked above and include instructions.
5. Can I be evicted for being LGBTQ+?
   No, eviction on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity is illegal under federal law and, in many areas, by local Florida ordinances.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Florida Renters

• LGBTQ+ renters in Florida are protected by federal law—and sometimes local rules—from housing discrimination.
• If you face discrimination, use official complaint forms through HUD or the Florida Commission on Human Relations.
• Keep records, know your rights, and reach out for support when needed.

Understanding your rights is the first step toward a safe and equal housing experience in Florida.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida Commission on Human Relations – Complaint forms, FAQs, and guidance
• HUD Fair Housing Discrimination Complaint Information
• Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Know your rights under state law
• For local protections, check your city or county’s human rights office for additional support.

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1. See HUD’s 2021 Guidance on Fair Housing Protections for LGBTQ+
2. Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Fla. Stat. §§ 83.40 – 83.683)

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