Filing a Disability Discrimination Complaint as a Maryland Renter

Facing disability discrimination as a renter can be stressful, but Maryland law offers protections to ensure fair housing for everyone. If you believe your landlord has treated you unfairly due to your disability, you have the right to file a complaint and seek accommodations or remedies. This guide explains how Maryland renters can take action, what forms to use, and where to find trusted help.

Understanding Disability Rights for Maryland Renters

Both federal and Maryland state laws protect renters with disabilities from discrimination. Landlords must not refuse to rent, harass, or impose different terms on someone due to a disability. Additionally, landlords are required to make reasonable accommodations in rules, policies, or services unless doing so would be an undue hardship.

• Fair Housing Act (federal) protects people with disabilities
• Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-214 addresses reasonable accommodations and modifications in rental housing

If your landlord refuses a reasonable modification or accommodation—for example, allowing a service animal or installing grab bars—this may be considered discrimination.

Maryland Agencies Handling Discrimination Complaints

The two main agencies handling disability housing discrimination claims are:

• Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR)
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity

MCCR investigates complaints under Maryland law. HUD can investigate under federal law. You do not need an attorney to submit a complaint. Use the agency that best fits your needs—MCCR is often faster for Maryland-specific cases.

How to File a Disability Discrimination Claim in Maryland

If you think your rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with MCCR or HUD within one year of the most recent alleged incident.

Key Forms and How to Use Them

• MCCR Housing Discrimination Complaint Form –
  Download or file online with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights.
  When to use: When you want Maryland to handle your housing discrimination claim. For example, if your landlord refused your request for a wheelchair ramp, fill out this form describing what happened and submit it via the link above.
• HUD Form 903 Online Complaint –
  File online through HUD's official portal.
  When to use: For violations under federal law. For example, if a landlord denies you based on your disability, file the online HUD complaint.

Step-by-Step: Filing a Disability Discrimination Complaint

The process is straightforward, and both MCCR and HUD provide free assistance if needed.

• Gather supporting documents (lease, correspondence, photos, accommodation request letters).
• Complete the appropriate complaint form (MCCR or HUD).
• Submit your form online, by mail, or in person (follow agency instructions).
• After submission, the agency may contact you for more details and will investigate your complaint.

What Happens Next?

After you file, the agency will:

• Review your complaint and contact you.
• Contact the landlord or property manager for a response.
• Attempt mediation to resolve the issue, if possible.
• If unresolved, potentially hold a hearing or issue a determination.
• Order remedies like policy changes or compensation if discrimination is confirmed.

For more details, visit the MCCR official housing discrimination page and HUD's housing complaint process overview.

FAQ: Disability Discrimination Claims for Maryland Renters

1. Do I need a lawyer to file a discrimination claim? No. The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights and HUD allow renters to file complaints on their own, and both agencies provide free support if you need help.
2. What counts as a reasonable accommodation in Maryland? Examples include allowing service animals, installing grab bars, or adjusting lease terms for a renter’s disability. The change must not place an undue burden on the landlord.
3. Can my landlord evict me for filing a disability complaint? Retaliation is illegal. If you’re evicted for asserting your rights, you may have another valid claim under Maryland law.
4. What documentation should I keep? Save any letters/emails requesting accommodations, responses from your landlord, your lease, and any communications about the dispute.
5. How long does the complaint process take? Investigations typically take a few months, but timeframes can vary depending on complexity and agency caseload.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Maryland law protects renters from disability discrimination—always document your situation.
• File a complaint with MCCR or HUD within one year if you experience discrimination.
• Each agency offers free assistance, and retaliation for asserting your rights is prohibited.

Maryland renters have strong protections and clear recourse when facing disability discrimination. Don’t hesitate to seek help or file a complaint if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Commission on Civil Rights: Complaint Intake (State Agency)
• HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (Federal)
• Maryland Attorney General: Fair Housing Tips
• MCCR Contact Page for phone and in-person support

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1. Maryland Code, Real Property §8-214: Accommodations for Individuals with Disabilities
2. Maryland Commission on Civil Rights - Official Complaint Form & Instructions
3. HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity: Complaint Process
4. Federal Fair Housing Act Overview

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