Filing a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Maine

If you are a renter in Maine and believe you’ve been discriminated against by a landlord or property manager, you have strong protections under state and federal law. Understanding how to file a housing discrimination complaint in Maine empowers you to assert your rights and seek fair treatment. This article explains the process, required forms, relevant agencies, and where to get further support—all in clear, renter-friendly language.

What Is Housing Discrimination?

Housing discrimination means treating someone unfairly in renting, buying, or occupying housing based on certain protected characteristics. In Maine, it is illegal for landlords or housing providers to deny you housing, set different terms, or harass you due to your:

• Race or color
• National origin
• Religion
• Sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity
• Age
• Familial status (such as having children)
• Physical or mental disability
• Receipt of public assistance

These protections come from both federal and state laws, such as the Maine Human Rights Act and the federal Fair Housing Act^[1][2].

Who Handles Housing Discrimination Complaints in Maine?

If you face discrimination, you can file a complaint with the Maine Human Rights Commission (MHRC). The MHRC is the official board responsible for investigating fair housing violations in Maine.

You can also choose to file at the federal level with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), but most Maine renters will start with the MHRC, which works in partnership with HUD.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Maine

Filing a complaint is free, confidential, and protected by law. Here’s a summary of the process to help you stand up for your rights:

• Collect any evidence, like emails, texts, or notices showing the discriminatory action.
• Complete and submit the official complaint form with the MHRC.
• Work with the Commission during their investigation. You may be asked for more information or to clarify your experience.

Official Form: MHRC Intake Questionnaire – Housing

• Form name: Intake Questionnaire – Housing
• Where to find it: Download from the Maine Human Rights Commission housing complaint page.
• When and how it’s used: Submit this form to start your complaint process if you believe a landlord has denied you housing or treated you differently due to a protected characteristic. For example, if a landlord refuses to rent to you after learning you have a disability, you’d complete this form and submit it to the MHRC.

Step-by-Step: Filing Your Complaint

You can file your complaint online, by mail, in-person, or by fax. Here are the usual steps:

1. Download or request the MHRC Intake Questionnaire – Housing.
2. Complete the form with as much detail as possible about what happened, when, and who was involved.
3. Submit the form to the MHRC via their online portal, mail, fax, or in-person.
4. Wait for MHRC to contact you. They may ask for more information before deciding whether to formally investigate.
5. If your complaint proceeds, the MHRC will notify the landlord and begin a formal investigation. You may be invited to mediation for a possible resolution.

The MHRC will guide you through each stage. Filing a complaint does not cost money, and you are protected from retaliation for standing up for your rights.

What Happens After You File?

Once your complaint is accepted, an investigator will look at the information you and the landlord provide. The MHRC aims to resolve most cases within 180 days. Possible outcomes:

• Mediation to reach a voluntary agreement.
• Investigation and a formal finding by the Commission.
• Referral to court or other legal remedies in rare cases.

You don’t need a lawyer to file, but you can choose to consult one. The MHRC has staff who can answer your process questions throughout.

What Laws Protect Maine Renters from Discrimination?

The key tenant protection laws in Maine are:

• Maine Human Rights Act (MHRA)
• Federal Fair Housing Act

These laws provide the foundation for your rights and the complaint process.^[1][2]

FAQ: Housing Discrimination Complaints in Maine

1. What is the deadline for filing a housing discrimination complaint in Maine?
   The MHRC requires you to file within 300 days of the discriminatory act, so act promptly if you believe your rights were violated.
2. Does filing a complaint with the MHRC mean I need a lawyer?
   No, you do not need a lawyer to file a complaint. The MHRC staff can help guide you through the process.
3. Can I be evicted or face retaliation for filing a complaint?
   No. Maine law protects tenants from retaliation for filing a discrimination complaint, such as eviction or increased rent.
4. What happens if the MHRC finds that discrimination occurred?
   The MHRC may propose solutions such as requiring the landlord to change practices, compensate for damages, or provide other relief. Some cases may go to court if not resolved.
5. Can I file both with the MHRC and HUD?
   You can file with either or both, but typically, one agency will handle your case. MHRC coordinates with HUD to prevent duplicate investigations.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine Human Rights Commission
  1-888-577-6690 (voice) | 207-624-8729 (TTY) | Contact Form
• HUD Fair Housing & Equal Opportunity Maine Office
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance – Free legal help for low-income renters in Maine
• MaineHousing – Housing Rights and Rental Assistance

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1. Maine Human Rights Act (Title 5, Chapter 337)
2. Federal Fair Housing Act, U.S. Department of Justice
3. Maine Human Rights Commission: Housing Intake Questionnaire

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