How to Report Fair Housing Violations in Florida

If you’re renting in Florida and believe you’ve been treated unfairly due to your race, disability, family status, or another protected trait, you’re not alone. Understanding how to recognize housing discrimination and knowing where to turn for help is crucial. Florida renters are protected under fair housing laws, and agencies exist specifically to investigate complaints and help enforce these rights.

What Is Fair Housing Testing?

Fair housing testing is a method used by government and nonprofit groups to uncover hidden discrimination in the housing market. Testers pose as renters to see if they are treated differently because of a protected characteristic, such as race, disability, or national origin, as outlined in the federal Fair Housing Act and the Florida Fair Housing Act¹.

Florida Fair Housing Enforcement Agencies

Several agencies in Florida handle fair housing rights and investigate discrimination complaints. Key agencies include:

• Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) – The official state body for investigating housing discrimination.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) - Florida office – Handles federal housing discrimination complaints.
• Local fair housing groups – Some cities and counties may also have fair housing boards or nonprofit testing groups. Check with your city’s housing department.

These organizations test, investigate, and enforce fair housing laws to make sure property owners and landlords follow the rules.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Florida

If you believe you’ve been discriminated against, you can file a formal complaint. You don’t need a lawyer to start the process. Here’s what you need to know:

• Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) Complaint Form
  Fair Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
  When to use: If you want to report discrimination in renting, buying, or applying for housing in Florida.
  How it works: Complete the form online or download and mail it. Attach any supporting documents or evidence (emails, text messages, ads, lease offers, etc.).
• HUD Form 903-1: Housing Discrimination Complaint
  Download HUD Form 903-1
  When to use: To file a federal complaint if you believe your fair housing rights were violated.
  Example: If a landlord refuses to rent to you because you have children, fill out and submit Form 903-1 to HUD. The form can be filed online, by mail, or by email (details at HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Process).

Once submitted, your complaint will be reviewed by the FCHR or HUD. They may reach out for more information or offer mediation services. Many cases are resolved through settlement or direct negotiation.

Florida Tenancy Laws Protecting Renters

The Florida Fair Housing Act and Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act provide renters with protection against unfair treatment and discrimination by landlords^2,3. These laws cover rental housing statewide, making discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin illegal.

Action Steps: What Should Florida Renters Do?

• Gather all evidence of suspected discrimination, such as written communications, applications, or witness accounts.
• Contact the FCHR or HUD for advice and to file an official complaint.
• Keep records of all steps taken and responses from landlords or property management.
• Ask about fair housing testing if you suspect ongoing issues.

Understanding your rights is the first step towards protecting yourself and others from housing discrimination in Florida.

FAQ: Fair Housing Complaints and Enforcement in Florida

1. What qualifies as housing discrimination under Florida law?
   Any denial of housing, different terms, or harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin.
2. How long do I have to file a fair housing complaint?
   Generally, you must file within one year of the discrimination event with FCHR or HUD.
3. Is it possible to get immediate help or mediation?
   Yes, agencies may offer mediation between renters and landlords to resolve issues quickly.
4. Do I need to pay to file a housing discrimination complaint?
   No, filing with FCHR or HUD is free for renters.
5. Who investigates housing discrimination complaints in Florida?
   The Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) and HUD investigate complaints, sometimes working together or with local agencies.

Key Takeaways for Florida Renters

• Florida law protects you from discrimination when renting a home.
• Agencies like FCHR and HUD are available to investigate and enforce fair housing laws.
• Use official complaint forms and save all evidence when reporting.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR): File complaints, access forms, and seek guidance on fair housing matters.
• HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity: Learn about federal protections and complaint procedures.
• Florida Statutes: Read full state tenancy and fair housing laws.
• For local help, contact your city or county housing office or visit Florida Housing.

---

1. Federal Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. §§ 3601-3619)
2. Florida Fair Housing Act (Chapter 760, Part II)
3. Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 83, Part II)

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