LGBTQ+ Renters' Fair Housing Rights in Maryland

Maryland renters deserve safe, fair, and equal access to housing—regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Protections for LGBTQ+ renters in Maryland are supported by both state and federal fair housing laws, with clear steps for addressing discrimination. This guide explains your rights, how to take action if problems arise, and where to find official support in Maryland.

Understanding LGBTQ+ Housing Protections in Maryland

LGBTQ+ renters in Maryland are protected from housing discrimination under both state and federal law. These protections mean landlords, property managers, and agents cannot legally refuse to rent, terminate leases, or treat you differently because of your sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

• Maryland law adds sexual orientation and gender identity to its list of protected classes (Maryland Code, State Government §20-701).
• Federal law prohibits sex-based discrimination, and currently includes protections for LGBTQ+ people under the Fair Housing Act (HUD LGBTQ+ Discrimination Guidance).

What Is Housing Discrimination?

Housing discrimination includes any unfair treatment based on a protected characteristic. For LGBTQ+ renters in Maryland, this may include:

• Denying a rental application because of sexual orientation or gender identity
• Harassment or threats related to your identity
• Unequal terms, rent, or policy enforcement
• Refusal of maintenance or repairs
• Eviction or threats of eviction based on your identity

If you suspect discrimination, knowing your rights is the first step toward action.

What Should You Do If You Face Discrimination?

If you believe you’ve experienced housing discrimination in Maryland, there are strong protections and clear complaint procedures available.

File a Discrimination Complaint in Maryland

• Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR)—the state agency responsible for investigating fair housing complaints. Visit the MCCR housing discrimination complaint page for full details.
• Federal complaints can be filed with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). File a complaint with HUD online.

Official Form: Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire (MCCR)

• Name: Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire
• When to use: Use this form to begin the process when you believe your rights have been violated. For instance, if an apartment manager rejects your application after learning you are transgender, you can start your complaint with this form.
• How it's used: The Intaker will review your completed form, then contact you for next steps or supporting documentation. Complaints must be filed within one year of the alleged incident.
• Download the official Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire (PDF)

Which Board Handles Tenancy Disputes in Maryland?

In Maryland, the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR) investigates housing discrimination cases. For other general landlord-tenant disputes, local District Courts may be involved. You can find your District Court for landlord-tenant matters.

Document all interactions with your landlord, save written communications, and gather any witnesses—this strengthens your case if you need to file a complaint.

Maryland’s Key Legislation Protecting LGBTQ+ Renters

LGBTQ+ renters in Maryland are specifically protected by the Maryland Fair Housing Act (State Government Article §20-701 et seq.). These protections are in addition to the federal Fair Housing Act.

• Sexual orientation and gender identity/expression are listed as protected traits, alongside race, religion, and other categories.
• Discrimination can include denial of housing, unequal treatment, or harassment.

For a full summary, see the MCCR Housing Discrimination Fact Sheet.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Maryland

Filing a complaint protects not just your rights, but helps others too. Here’s the usual process:

• Submit the Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire to MCCR as soon as possible (within 1 year).
• Speak with an MCCR intake officer and provide any documents or evidence you have.
• Cooperate with the investigation. MCCR may schedule mediation or further inquiry.
• For federal complaints, follow HUD’s online process. You can file with both HUD and MCCR for the same incident.

Filing is cost-free and confidential.

FAQ: Maryland LGBTQ+ Housing Protections

1. What are my rights as an LGBTQ+ renter in Maryland?
   You have the right to access housing without discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Landlords cannot refuse to rent, evict, or treat you differently for these reasons.
2. What should I do if my landlord discriminates against me?
   Document what happened and file a complaint with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights using their questionnaire. You may also file with HUD.
3. How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint?
   You must generally file your complaint within one year of the incident.
4. Can I be evicted for being LGBTQ+ in Maryland?
   No. Eviction based on sexual orientation or gender identity is illegal under state and federal housing laws.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Commission on Civil Rights: File a Housing Complaint
• Maryland Courts – Housing Rights & Landlord/Tenant Help
• Submit a Housing Discrimination Complaint to HUD
• MCCR – Official Home Page

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1. Maryland Fair Housing Act (Md. Code, State Government §20-701 et seq.)
2. Federal Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. §§ 3601–3619)
3. Maryland Commission on Civil Rights – Housing Discrimination Complaint Process
4. HUD Guidance: Equal Access for LGBTQ+ Individuals

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