Filing a Disability Discrimination Complaint as a Michigan Renter

If you’re a renter in Michigan with a disability, state and federal laws protect your right to fair and accessible housing. If you believe your landlord has discriminated against you due to your disability—such as denying reasonable accommodations or modifications—there are clear steps you can take to file a complaint and stand up for your rights.

Understanding Disability Discrimination in Michigan Housing

Disability discrimination happens when a housing provider treats you unfairly, refuses to provide reasonable accommodations, or denies your application because of your disability. In Michigan, your protections come from both the Michigan Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act and the federal Fair Housing Act.^1,2

Types of Disability Discrimination in Housing

• Denying a rental application because of a disability
• Not allowing a service animal or emotional support animal
• Refusing to make reasonable modifications (for example, installation of grab bars)
• Charging extra fees for accommodations
• Enforcing different tenancy rules for those with disabilities

It’s important to know the difference between a reasonable accommodation (a change to rules, policies, or practices) and a reasonable modification (a physical change to your rental unit for accessibility). Landlords generally must allow these unless it creates an undue financial or administrative burden.

How to File a Disability Discrimination Complaint in Michigan

Michigan’s official tribunal for housing discrimination complaints is the Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR). This agency investigates and resolves housing discrimination cases under state law. You can also file directly with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for federal protections.

Required Official Forms

• Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
  
  • When to use: If you’ve experienced disability discrimination in a rental property in Michigan.
  • How it works: Fill out and submit the form to start an investigation by MDCR. For example, if your landlord denied your request for a service animal, you can use this form to file your complaint.
  • Official form: MDCR Housing Discrimination Complaint Instructions & Form
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (Form 903)
  
  • When to use: If you want to file under federal law or if your situation involves multiple states.
  • How it works: Complete the online form or mail it to HUD. For instance, if you rent from a company that operates in several states, consider filing both with MDCR and HUD.
  • Official form: HUD Form 903 - File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

Steps to File a Disability Discrimination Claim in Michigan

Filing a complaint may seem daunting, but the process is designed to be accessible. Start by gathering documentation, such as written requests, email correspondence, or witnesses, to support your complaint.

• 1. Document what happened – Keep detailed records of the incident(s), requests made, and responses received.
• 2. Complete the relevant complaint form – Fill out the MDCR Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (or HUD Form 903 as needed).
• 3. Submit your complaint – Submit your completed form by mail, email, fax, or using the MDCR’s online system. Keep a copy for your records.
• 4. Respond to MDCR inquiries – You may be contacted for more information or mediation. Participate actively in the process.
• 5. Await investigation and decision – MDCR will review your complaint, possibly investigate further, and attempt to resolve the matter through conciliation or a hearing.

Relevant Michigan Tenant Laws

For a full understanding of your rights, consult the following legislation:

• Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (Public Act 453 of 1976) – Michigan’s core anti-discrimination statute
• Federal Fair Housing Act – U.S. protections against housing discrimination

The Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) enforces disability discrimination rules for renters in Michigan. For more on local tenancy laws, the Michigan Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Guide has helpful explanations.³

FAQs: Filing for Disability Discrimination as a Michigan Renter

1. What is considered disability discrimination in Michigan housing? - Any unfair treatment, denial of reasonable accommodations, or refusal to rent based on your disability, such as denying service animals or refusing modification requests.
2. How long do I have to file a housing discrimination complaint in Michigan? - Complaints to the MDCR must generally be filed within 180 days of when the discrimination occurred.
3. Can I file both a state and federal complaint? - Yes, you can file a complaint with both the Michigan Department of Civil Rights and HUD to ensure protection under both state and federal laws.
4. Will my landlord know I filed a complaint? - Usually yes, since your landlord will be contacted during the investigation, but retaliation for filing is illegal.
5. Do I need an attorney to file a complaint? - No, you do not need a lawyer to file a complaint, but legal advice can help if your case is complex.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Michigan law and federal protections make disability discrimination in housing illegal.
• Filing a complaint with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights is a straightforward process.
• Keep records and act quickly—deadlines apply for filing.

Getting support early can make a big difference if you encounter housing discrimination as a renter in Michigan.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan Department of Civil Rights – File a Complaint: (800) 482-3604 or email MDCR-INFO@michigan.gov
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Fair Housing
• Michigan Legal Aid: Free or low-cost legal support for qualifying renters
• Michigan Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Rights Guide

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1. Michigan Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act
2. Federal Fair Housing Act
3. Michigan Landlord-Tenant Guide

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