Filing a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Missouri

Facing housing discrimination can be stressful, but Missouri law protects renters from unfair treatment based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin. Understanding your rights and how to take action is essential for a safe and fair rental experience. This guide will help you navigate the process of filing a housing discrimination complaint in Missouri, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are protected. Whether you need to report unequal treatment or accessibility concerns, Missouri offers official resources and step-by-step procedures to assist renters.

What Counts as Housing Discrimination in Missouri?

In Missouri, housing discrimination occurs when a landlord or housing provider treats you differently due to protected characteristics under the Missouri Human Rights Act and the federal Fair Housing Act. Common examples include:

• Denying an application or refusing to rent based on race, color, or national origin
• Imposing different rental terms because of disability or family status
• Retaliating against renters who file complaints
• Harassing tenants based on gender or religion

Your Rights Under Missouri Tenant Law

The Missouri Human Rights Act (Chapter 213, RSMo) and federal law guarantee your right to fair housing. These laws protect renters from discrimination in advertising, rental applications, lease terms, and services.

The Official Agency Handling Housing Discrimination

The Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR) is the state tribunal responsible for handling housing discrimination complaints. You can file complaints directly with the MCHR or the federal U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Missouri

If you suspect discrimination, act quickly. Missouri law gives you180 days from the incident to file a complaint with MCHR.

Key Steps for Renters

• Gather documentation (emails, texts, notices, names and dates of incidents)
• Complete and submit the official complaint form
• Cooperate with any investigation by providing more details if needed

Official Missouri Housing Discrimination Forms

• Missouri Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire (No number)
  Access the official MCHR Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire
  Use this form if you believe you've experienced housing discrimination. Complete and submit it to the MCHR to start your complaint. For example, if your landlord has refused to rent to you due to your family status, you would fill out this form detailing what happened.
• HUD Form 903 Online Complaint
  File a HUD fair housing complaint online
  Use this HUD online form if you prefer to file at the federal level. Provide clear explanations and all supporting documents when submitting your claim.

The MCHR will review your complaint, investigate, and may mediate between you and your landlord. Some cases may also be referred to federal agencies, depending on protections and circumstances.

Investigation and What to Expect

After your complaint is filed and accepted:

• An MCHR investigator may contact you for more information
• The agency will notify your landlord or the housing provider about the complaint
• Mediation or settlement might be offered to resolve issues quickly
• If necessary, the MCHR or HUD can schedule a public hearing or take legal action

FAQ: Housing Discrimination for Missouri Renters

1. What is the deadline to file a housing discrimination complaint in Missouri?
   The deadline is 180 days from the alleged discriminatory act to file with the Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR).
2. Can I file a federal complaint instead of a state complaint?
   Yes, renters can file directly with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) if they prefer or if the discrimination violates federal fair housing laws.
3. What happens after I submit the discrimination complaint?
   The MCHR will review your form, investigate your case, and may offer mediation between you and your landlord. Formal hearings may occur if issues are not resolved.
4. Is it possible to file a complaint anonymously?
   No, you must provide your name and contact details, as the landlord will be notified about the complaint. However, your information is protected by privacy laws during the process.
5. What protections do I have from landlord retaliation?
   Both Missouri law and the federal Fair Housing Act make it illegal for landlords to retaliate against tenants for filing complaints or exercising fair housing rights.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Missouri Renters

• Missouri law protects you from housing discrimination in rentals
• If you face unfair treatment, file a complaint within 180 days to the Missouri Commission on Human Rights
• Use official forms and provide as much detail as possible to support your case

Understanding your rights enables you to take confident action if you encounter discrimination in the Missouri rental market.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR) – File complaints or check complaint status, see fair housing guides, and contact investigators.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Complaint Process – File a federal complaint or learn more about federal fair housing protections.
• Missouri Human Rights Act (Chapter 213, RSMo) – Read the state law protecting renters from discrimination.
• HUD Legal Resources – Fair housing legal resources and additional support.

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1. Missouri Human Rights Act, Chapter 213, Revised Statutes of Missouri
2. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process
3. Missouri Commission on Human Rights, Official Agency Website
4. Official Complaint Form, MCHR Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire

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