Maryland Fair Housing Testing & Enforcement: Renters’ Guide

Finding fair and equitable housing isn’t always easy. If you’re experiencing discrimination or unfair treatment as a renter in Maryland, you have dedicated agencies and clear laws protecting your rights. This guide explains how fair housing testing works, who enforces these laws, and what steps you can take if you believe your housing rights have been violated under Maryland Fair Housing laws.

Understanding Fair Housing Laws in Maryland

Fair housing laws ensure everyone has equal access to housing opportunities, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, or familial status. In Maryland, these protections are provided under both federal and state regulations, such as the Federal Fair Housing Act and the Maryland Fair Housing Law.^[1]

What Is Fair Housing Testing?

Fair housing testing is when trained individuals pose as prospective renters to gather evidence of possible discrimination. These tests, conducted by fair housing organizations, help identify and prevent illegal practices by landlords or property managers.

Key Enforcement & Testing Agencies in Maryland

Several official agencies in Maryland investigate and enforce fair housing rights for renters:

• Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR): The main state agency for investigating housing discrimination complaints. Learn more about MCCR housing discrimination services.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Region III Office: Handles federal fair housing complaints in Maryland. How to file a complaint with HUD.
• Local agencies and fair housing organizations: Some counties and cities have local human relations commissions that test for fair housing compliance and help renters file complaints. For example, Baltimore City Office of Equity and Civil Rights and Montgomery County Office of Human Rights.

Typically, you can contact these agencies for advice, help filing complaints, or assistance with fair housing testing if you suspect discrimination.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Maryland

If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly while seeking to rent (such as being refused an apartment based on a protected characteristic), you can formally report this through state or federal channels. Below are your main options:

Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR) Housing Discrimination Complaint Form

• Form Name: Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire
• When to Use: Use this form if you think a landlord or agent has discriminated against you while renting or searching for housing in Maryland.
• How to Submit: Complete the form online, by mail, or in-person.
  • View and download the Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire
• Example: If a landlord denies your rental application after learning you have children, this form helps you begin an official review.

HUD Form 903 (Housing Discrimination Complaint)

• Form Name: Form 903 – Housing Discrimination Complaint
• When to Use: If your case involves a possible violation of federal fair housing laws, you can submit Form 903 directly to HUD.
• How to Submit: You may file online, by mail, or email.
  • File a complaint using HUD Form 903
• Example: If you’re denied housing because of your race or a landlord refuses to accommodate your disability, use this form to start the process.

After submitting, you may be contacted by investigators, or the case could be referred for further fair housing testing.

Tribunal or Board Handling Residential Tenancies

Maryland does not have a single statewide housing tribunal. However, renters may pursue claims related to housing discrimination with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights. Local circuit courts may also be used if you need to take legal action. For general landlord-tenant disputes, refer to your county's District Court (e.g., Maryland District Court Civil Division).

Renter Tips: Protecting Yourself from Discrimination

• Keep all communications with landlords or agents in writing whenever possible.
• Document incidents of suspected discrimination, including dates, names, and what was said.
• Contact a local fair housing organization for confidential support or advocacy. You can ask about fair housing testing to help document your experience.

Remember: you have rights as a renter. Maryland’s fair housing laws protect you from unfair treatment at every stage of your rental journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is fair housing testing, and can renters ask for it?
   Fair housing testing is a method where trained testers pose as renters to check for discrimination. If you suspect unfair treatment, you can request that a local fair housing agency conduct a test or investigate your case.
2. How quickly should I file a housing discrimination complaint in Maryland?
   It's best to report suspected discrimination as soon as possible. Maryland law typically gives you up to one year to file a complaint with MCCR.
3. Do I need a lawyer to file a fair housing complaint?
   No, you do not need an attorney to file a complaint with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights or HUD. These agencies will help guide you through the process.
4. Will my landlord know if a test is performed?
   Fair housing testing is typically discreet. Landlords usually aren't notified in advance when agencies conduct these tests.
5. Are there local resources for language support?
   Many agencies, including the MCCR and HUD, offer translation and interpretation services for renters needing assistance in another language.

Key Takeaways for Maryland Renters

• Maryland prohibits housing discrimination based on federal and state fair housing laws.
• If you believe you've been discriminated against, official agencies like MCCR and HUD can investigate and test your case.
• Complaint forms are available online, and you do not need a lawyer to take action.

Fair housing enforcement exists to ensure every Maryland renter has a safe, equitable, and accessible home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Commission on Civil Rights – Housing Discrimination: Official complaint process, resource guides, and staff contacts.
• HUD Fair Housing & Equal Opportunity: Federal complaint filing and FAQs.
• Montgomery County Office of Human Rights: Local support and advocacy for renters.
• Baltimore City Office of Equity and Civil Rights: Complaint services and investigations.
• Maryland Fair Housing Law (General Provisions § 20-702)

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1. Maryland Fair Housing Law: General Provisions § 20-702
2. Federal Fair Housing Act
3. MCCR Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire (PDF)
4. HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process & Form 903
5. Maryland District Courts – Civil Division

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