Filing a Disability Discrimination Claim as a Kansas Renter

Living with a disability shouldn't make renting a home in Kansas more difficult. State and federal laws protect your right to fair treatment, ensuring landlords provide reasonable accommodations and do not discriminate based on disability. If you believe you have experienced disability discrimination while renting, this guide explains the steps to file a complaint in Kansas.

Understanding Disability Discrimination in Kansas Housing

Disability discrimination means being treated unfairly in housing because of a physical or mental impairment. Examples can include being refused reasonable accommodations (like a service animal), denied the right to apply, or facing eviction because of your disability.

• The federal Fair Housing Act and the Kansas Act Against Discrimination both make it illegal for landlords to discriminate against renters with disabilities.^[1]

When and How to File a Disability Discrimination Complaint in Kansas

If you believe your landlord or property manager has discriminated against you, you do not have to face it alone. Kansas has a formal process to protect your rights and investigate your complaint.

Where to File: Kansas Human Rights Commission (KHRC)

The Kansas Human Rights Commission (KHRC) is the official agency that handles housing discrimination claims in Kansas. You can also file with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Filing Forms: What You Need and How to Use Them

• KHRC Complaint Questionnaire (no official number): This form starts your complaint with KHRC. It gathers basic information about your situation.
  When to Use: If you believe your landlord did not provide reasonable accommodations (for example, refusing a disability parking spot).
  Download the KHRC Complaint Questionnaire
• HUD Form 903 Online Complaint (HUD-903): Used if you prefer to file federally or if you want HUD to investigate.
  When to Use: If your problem may violate both state and federal laws or if you want a federal investigation.
  Learn about the HUD housing complaint process

Steps to File Your Complaint

• Document what happened: Include dates, details, and names of those involved.
• Gather supporting documents: Save any emails, letters, lease agreements, or photos that back up your claim.
• Complete the appropriate form (KHRC or HUD). Be honest and detailed in your description.
• Submit your form:
  • For KHRC: By mail, fax, or online at the KHRC complaint center.
  • For HUD: Online, by mail, or by phone using the HUD-903 form.
• After you submit: A KHRC or HUD investigator will review your claim and contact you about next steps.

A quick summary: Filing a complaint preserves your right to safe, accessible, and discrimination-free housing under Kansas and federal law.

Your Rights Under Kansas Tenant Law

In addition to antidiscrimination laws, Kansas residential renters are protected under the Kansas Residential Landlord & Tenant Act. This law includes your right to a safe apartment, making repairs, and equal treatment, regardless of disability.^[2]

FAQ: Disability Discrimination Claims for Kansas Renters

1. What is considered disability discrimination in Kansas housing?
   Disability discrimination involves any unfair treatment in housing because you have a physical or mental impairment, such as refusing reasonable modifications or denying you a rental based on your disability.
2. How long do I have to file a claim in Kansas?
   You must file your KHRC discrimination complaint within one year of the alleged incident.
3. What happens after I file a disability discrimination complaint?
   The KHRC or HUD will investigate your complaint. They may contact you and your landlord, try to resolve the issue, or hold a hearing if necessary.
4. Can my landlord retaliate against me for filing a complaint?
   No. Both state and federal law prohibit landlords from retaliating against renters for exercising their rights or filing a claim.
5. Do I need an attorney to file?
   No, you do not need a lawyer to file a complaint, but you may seek free or low-cost legal help if you need support or advice.

Key Takeaways for Kansas Renters Facing Disability Discrimination

• Kansas law and the Fair Housing Act protect renters from discrimination based on disability.
• You can file a complaint with either the Kansas Human Rights Commission or HUD, using the official forms.
• Keep all documents and evidence of discrimination, and act as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kansas Human Rights Commission (KHRC) — File complaints or get advice: (785) 296-3206
• U.S. HUD Fair Housing Discrimination Complaint Portal
• Kansas Legal Services — Free legal advice for renters (select disability issues)
• Kansas Housing Resources Corporation — Additional housing support, accessibility resources

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1. Kansas Act Against Discrimination (K.S.A. 44-1001 et seq.)
2. Kansas Residential Landlord & Tenant Act (K.S.A. 58-2540 to 58-2573)

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