Proving Discriminatory Rental Screening in Kentucky

If you’re a renter in Kentucky who suspects you’ve been treated unfairly in a rental application due to your race, national origin, family status, disability, religion, or another protected class, you do have rights. Kentucky landlords must not use discriminatory screening practices. This article explains how to recognize, document, and challenge illegal screening using Kentucky and federal law, with links to resources and official complaint forms.

Understanding Housing Discrimination in Kentucky

Both the federal Fair Housing Act and sections of Kentucky Revised Statutes, Chapter 344 protect renters from discrimination by landlords. In Kentucky, it’s illegal for landlords to refuse to rent, set different terms, or unfairly screen applicants based on:

• Race or color
• National origin
• Religion
• Sex
• Disability
• Familial status (such as having children)

Some cities in Kentucky may also offer additional protections, but these are the core categories covered by state and federal law.^[1][2]

What Are Discriminatory Screening Practices?

Discriminatory screening happens when a landlord treats an applicant differently or unfairly due to a protected characteristic. Common examples can include:

• Refusing to process your application
• Charging higher fees or deposits based on your background
• Asking questions about children, disabilities, or immigration status unrelated to your qualifications
• Using inconsistent criteria to accept or reject applicants

How to Gather Evidence of Discriminatory Screening

Proving discrimination is about showing how you were treated differently compared to others. Before taking official action, these steps can strengthen your case:

• Keep all written communication (emails, texts, application forms, brochures)
• Document phone calls or in-person conversations (note dates, times, who was present, and what was said)
• Ask for specific reasons if your application is denied or delayed
• Compare your experience to other applicants, if possible (for example, if you know someone with similar finances but a different background was approved)
• Save evidence of rental ads and application instructions

Clear, organized evidence greatly improves your chances of a successful investigation.

Filing a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Kentucky

If you believe you’ve been discriminated against, you can file a formal complaint with the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights (KCHR), which is Kentucky’s official tribunal for investigating and remedying housing discrimination. Alternatively, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD).

Official Complaint Forms

• Kentucky Commission on Human Rights Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
  KCHR Housing Intake Questionnaire (PDF)
  Use this form if you want Kentucky state authorities to investigate housing discrimination. For example, if a landlord refused your application and you believe it was because of your race or family status, fill out and submit this form to KCHR.
• HUD Form 903 Online Complaint
  HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
  Submit this if you want federal authorities (HUD) to investigate. You can file either instead of, or in addition to, the state form.

How to File a Complaint: Key Steps

Filing a complaint is free and available to all renters in Kentucky. Here’s how:

• Download or complete one of the above forms (online or in PDF format)
• Fill out your contact information and describe exactly what happened, including dates and names
• Attach any documentation (emails, photos, application records)
• Submit the form as directed (by mail, fax, email, or using the online portal)
• KCHR or HUD will review your case, may investigate, and can help achieve a resolution or take legal action if discrimination is found

Remember: You have the legal right to equal treatment in tenant screening. Filing a complaint does not affect your right to look for other housing, and retaliation from a landlord is also unlawful.

What Legislation Protects Kentucky Renters?

In Kentucky, tenant protections against discrimination come from:

• Kentucky Revised Statutes Chapter 344: Kentucky Civil Rights Act
• Federal Fair Housing Act

These laws prohibit discrimination and provide renters with official channels to seek help^[1][2].

FAQ: Discriminatory Screening in Kentucky

1. What is the deadline to file a discrimination complaint in Kentucky?
   You have 180 days from the alleged act of discrimination to file with the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights, or one year to file with HUD.
2. Does Kentucky protect against discrimination for sexual orientation or gender identity?
   Some Kentucky cities offer local protections for sexual orientation or gender identity, but these are not statewide. Check with your local government or advocacy organizations.
3. Can a landlord ask about my disability during screening?
   No, landlords are only allowed to ask necessary questions for reasonable accommodations, not general questions about your disability.
4. What happens after I file a housing discrimination complaint?
   The KCHR or HUD will review your complaint, conduct an investigation, and may attempt to resolve the matter. If discrimination is confirmed, remedies may include damages, changes to policies, or other relief.
5. If I report discrimination, can the landlord refuse to rent to me in retaliation?
   Retaliation for filing a fair housing complaint is illegal under both Kentucky and federal law.

Key Takeaways for Kentucky Renters

• You have a right to fair, non-discriminatory treatment when applying for housing in Kentucky.
• Gather documentation if you suspect discrimination, and compare your experience to others when possible.
• Official complaint forms and state agencies like the KCHR are available to help you assert your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky Commission on Human Rights (KCHR) – Submit discrimination complaints, learn about your rights, and access their official complaint form.
• HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity – Federal guide to fair housing and online complaint portal.
• Kentucky Housing Corporation – Programs and support for renters across Kentucky.
• For city-specific protections, contact your local city hall or housing authority for any additional ordinances.

---

1. Kentucky Revised Statutes Chapter 344: Kentucky Civil Rights Act
2. The Fair Housing Act (U.S. Department of Justice)
3. Kentucky Commission on Human Rights (Official tribunal for housing discrimination in Kentucky)
4. HUD Fair Housing & Equal Opportunity

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