How to File a Complaint Against a Landlord in Kentucky

If you're renting a home in Kentucky and having issues with your landlord, such as problems with repairs, security deposits, or unlawful eviction, you have rights protected by state law. Understanding how to formally raise concerns and file a complaint can lead to solutions—with the security that comes from Kentucky's tenant protection legislation.

Understanding Tenant Rights in Kentucky

Kentucky renters are covered by state and sometimes local laws regarding repairs, deposits, privacy, and fair treatment. In most cities, the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) provides the legal framework for rental relationships^[1]. However, not all counties have adopted URLTA—it applies mainly in Kentucky's larger cities. Always check whether your city falls under this act or local ordinances.

When Can a Renter File a Complaint?

You may consider filing a complaint if your landlord:

• Refuses to make necessary repairs after notice
• Fails to return your security deposit within 30 days
• Attempts an illegal eviction or locks you out
• Violates your right to privacy (e.g., enters without proper notice)

When direct communication hasn't solved the problem, an official complaint is a practical next step.

Step-by-Step: How to File a Complaint Against Your Landlord in Kentucky

• Document Your Issue: Keep written records of the problem, previous requests to the landlord (with dates), photos, or other evidence.
• Send a Formal Written Notice: Kentucky law requires that tenants usually give landlords written notice of the issue. This gives your landlord a set time to fix the problem (typically 14 days for repairs in URLTA jurisdictions).
• If No Resolution, File a Complaint: If your landlord doesn't respond, you can submit a complaint to the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division. This agency investigates landlord-tenant complaints statewide.
• For Housing Discrimination: If you suspect discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, or disability, file a fair housing complaint with the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights.
• Consider Local Code Enforcement: For safety and repair issues, contact your city or county’s code enforcement or housing department if available—for example, the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Code Enforcement.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Kentucky Attorney General Consumer Complaint Form
  [Access the official complaint form]
  Example Use: If your landlord will not return your security deposit, complete this online or printable form, provide documentation, and submit it by mail or online. This begins an official investigation process by the Attorney General’s office.
• Kentucky Commission on Human Rights Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
  [File a housing discrimination complaint]
  Example Use: If you suspect discrimination (for example, being denied housing because of your race or family status), you would fill out this form and submit to the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights.
• Local Code Enforcement Forms
  [Lexington Code Enforcement Request]
  Example Use: If your rental unit has unsafe conditions like no heat or serious leaks, and your landlord will not take action after notice, you can submit a code enforcement request for an official inspection.

Who Handles Tenant Complaints?

There is no single "landlord-tenant board" in Kentucky. Complaints about general rental issues are overseen by the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General Consumer Protection Division. For discrimination, the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights acts as the official enforcement agency for fair housing law.

Kentucky Tenant Law and Your Rights

Most Kentucky renters are protected under the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KRS Chapter 383, Sections 500-715)^[1] in participating cities. This law covers issues such as repairs, entry notice, deposits, and eviction procedures. Always check if your locality adopts URLTA, as a few rural counties may not.

FAQ: Filing a Landlord Complaint in Kentucky

1. What issues can I file a complaint about? Most issues involve repairs, unreturned deposits, lockouts, habitability, or possible discrimination by the landlord.
2. Is there a tenant board or tribunal in Kentucky? Kentucky uses state agencies like the Office of the Attorney General (for general rental disputes) and the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights (for discrimination). There is no dedicated "landlord-tenant tribunal."
3. How long does a complaint investigation take? This varies, but the Office of the Attorney General will notify you on receipt and update you as the case is reviewed. It typically takes several weeks to months depending on the complexity.
4. What should I include with my complaint? Include all documents: your lease, communications, receipts, and photos. The more evidence you provide, the clearer your case will be.
5. Can I be evicted for filing a complaint? Kentucky law prohibits landlords from retaliating against tenants for exercising legal rights, including filing complaints—for example, by raising rent, threatening eviction, or reducing services. If this happens, further legal remedies may be available under URLTA.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Kentucky renters have state and federal protections—document and report any landlord violation.
• Use official complaint forms and submit supporting documents to the correct state agency.
• Check your local laws to ensure full protection under Kentucky’s rental statutes.

By following the correct steps, you can help resolve disputes and ensure safe, fair housing.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky Office of the Attorney General – Tenant/Landlord Complaints
• Kentucky Commission on Human Rights – Housing Discrimination Complaints
• Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• KRS Chapter 383: Landlord and Tenant
• Lexington Fayette Code Enforcement

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1. Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KRS Chapter 383)
2. Kentucky Office of the Attorney General: Consumer Complaints
3. Kentucky Commission on Human Rights: Housing Complaint Forms

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