Indiana Fair Housing Testing and Enforcement Guide

As a renter in Indiana, understanding your protections under fair housing laws is crucial—especially if you're facing discrimination in renting, eviction, or housing-related services. Indiana’s fair housing testing and enforcement systems are in place to ensure that everyone receives equal treatment and opportunity.

What Is Fair Housing Testing and Why Does It Matter?

Fair housing testing is a method used by government agencies and fair housing organizations to identify illegal discrimination in housing. Testers pose as renters with similar qualifications but different protected characteristics (such as race, disability, or familial status) to detect unequal treatment by landlords or property managers.

These test results help enforcement agencies gather evidence and take action to uphold your fair housing rights under the law.

Which Protections Apply to Indiana Renters?

Indiana renters are protected by the federal Fair Housing Act and the Indiana Fair Housing Act. These laws prohibit discrimination on the basis of:

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

If you suspect you have been discriminated against when looking to rent, apply for housing, or during your tenancy, you have the right to file a complaint and request an investigation.

Key Indiana Fair Housing Testing & Enforcement Agencies

Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC)

The Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC) is the main state agency enforcing fair housing rights in Indiana. The ICRC investigates complaints, conducts fair housing tests, and provides education and outreach for renters and landlords.

• Address: 100 N. Senate Ave. Room N103, Indianapolis, IN 46204
• Phone: 1-800-628-2909 / (317) 232-2600
• Email: icrc@crc.in.gov

The federal U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity also accepts Indiana complaints for possible investigation.

Local Fair Housing Organizations

• Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana (FHCCI) – Provides fair housing testing and advocacy across central Indiana.
• Other regional legal aid offices may also assist with filing complaints or education.

How to File a Fair Housing Complaint in Indiana

If you believe you’ve experienced housing discrimination, you can file an official complaint with the Indiana Civil Rights Commission, HUD, or both. The ICRC will investigate, and if necessary, conduct fair housing testing to support your case.

Official Fair Housing Complaint Form (State)

• Form Name: Indiana Civil Rights Complaint Intake Form
• When and How to Use: Use this form to report suspected housing discrimination in Indiana. For example, if a landlord refuses to rent to you because you have children, complete this form and submit it to the ICRC.
• Official Indiana Civil Rights Complaint Intake Form

Official Fair Housing Complaint Form (Federal)

• Form Name: HUD Form 903.1 (Housing Discrimination Complaint)
• When and How to Use: Use this federal form to file a complaint directly with HUD regarding alleged housing discrimination. For example, if you believe you were offered less favorable terms due to your religion, you can file this form online or mail it to HUD.
• Submit a Housing Discrimination Complaint Online (HUD)

What Happens After I File a Complaint?

Once your fair housing complaint is received, the agency will:

• Review the information and contact you for more details
• Notify the landlord or property manager about the complaint
• Conduct an investigation, which may include interviews, document review, and fair housing testing
• Attempt to resolve the issue through conciliation or, if necessary, schedule a hearing

During this process, it’s important to keep copies of your application, correspondence, and any evidence related to your case. Both the Indiana Civil Rights Commission and HUD will update you on their findings and any next steps.

Your Rights Under Indiana Fair Housing Law

Indiana’s primary legislation governing fair housing is the Indiana Fair Housing Act (Indiana Code Title 22, Article 9.5).^[1] This act mirrors and enforces the protections found in the federal Fair Housing Act.

For eviction and other rental issues not related to discrimination, review the Indiana Landlord-Tenant Act (Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31).^[2]

FAQ: Indiana Fair Housing Testing and Enforcement

1. What is a fair housing tester?
   A fair housing tester is a trained individual who acts like a prospective renter to help agencies identify illegal housing discrimination through evidence-based tests.
2. Does the ICRC only help with discrimination in renting?
   No, the ICRC also investigates discrimination in sales, financing, and other housing transactions if protected characteristics are involved.
3. Can I file a complaint online?
   Yes. You can file an Indiana Civil Rights Complaint online via the ICRC website or with HUD using their online complaint portal.
4. Is there a deadline to file a fair housing complaint?
   Yes. You must generally file within one year of the alleged discriminatory act to preserve your rights.
5. Will my landlord find out if I file a complaint?
   The landlord or property manager will be informed of the complaint as part of the investigation, but retaliation is strictly prohibited under the law.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• The Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC) and HUD are your main resources for reporting and investigating fair housing discrimination.
• Official forms are available online and can be submitted electronically or by mail.
• Testing and enforcement help protect your right to equal treatment in renting, regardless of your protected status.

Understanding Indiana’s fair housing laws and available resources empowers you to take action if you ever face discrimination.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC): Main portal for complaints and information.
• HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO): Federal resources and complaint portal.
• Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana (FHCCI): Local assistance and education.
• Indiana Legal Services: Free or low-cost tenant advocacy and legal support.

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1. Indiana Fair Housing Act (Indiana Code Title 22, Article 9.5)
2. Indiana Landlord-Tenant Act (Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31)

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