How to File a Disability Discrimination Claim as a Missouri Renter

If you're renting in Missouri and feel you have faced disability discrimination from a landlord or property manager, it's important to know your rights and the process for filing a claim. Missouri law, as well as federal laws, protect tenants from discrimination based on disability. This guide explains the steps you can take, the official forms you'll need, and resources to support you.

Understanding Disability Rights for Renters in Missouri

Both the federal Fair Housing Act and the Missouri Human Rights Act protect renters from discrimination based on disability. Landlords must provide reasonable accommodations, such as allowing service animals or making accessible modifications, unless it poses an undue hardship or fundamentally alters the property.

What Counts as Disability Discrimination?

Examples of unlawful disability discrimination in housing include:

• Denying rental applications because of a disability.
• Refusing to make reasonable accommodations or allow reasonable modifications (at the renter's expense where applicable).
• Charging higher rent or different terms based on disability.

If any of these situations apply, you may have grounds to file a claim.

Who Handles Disability Discrimination Claims in Missouri?

For residential renters, claims can be filed with the Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR). The MCHR is the official state board that investigates housing discrimination complaints under state law. You may also file with the federal U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) if your claim involves federal law.

How to File a Disability Discrimination Complaint

To begin, you must file a formal complaint with the MCHR. Here are the main steps:

Step 1: Complete the Official Complaint Form

The required document is the Discrimination Complaint Form – Housing (no form number, official name).

• Download the Discrimination Complaint Form – Housing (PDF)
• When to use: If you have experienced discrimination based on disability in housing within the past year.
• How it works: Complete the form with as much detail as possible, describing what happened, who was involved, when the incident occurred, and what outcome you seek. For example, if your landlord denied a request for a wheelchair ramp, you would describe the request, their response, and any impact this had on your housing.

Step 2: Submit Your Complaint

• You can send the completed form to the MCHR by mail, fax, or email. Instructions and addresses are on the form.
• Complaints must be filed within one year of the alleged discrimination.

Step 3: Investigation and Resolution

• The MCHR will review your claim and may reach out for more information.
• If your case is accepted, the agency will notify both you and the landlord, investigate, and may attempt mediation. If mediation fails, the case may proceed to a public hearing or court.

You can find a full description of the process on the MCHR File a Complaint page.

Missouri Laws and Federal Protections

• Missouri Human Rights Act (Section 213.040) — The state law prohibiting housing discrimination.
• Federal Fair Housing Act — Federal protections applicable nationwide.

Understanding these laws can help you better navigate your rights and the claims process.

FAQ: Disability Discrimination Claims for Missouri Renters

1. How long do I have to file a discrimination claim?
   You must file your complaint within one year of the alleged discriminatory act.
2. Can my landlord evict me or retaliate if I file a complaint?
   Retaliation for filing a claim is illegal under Missouri and federal law.
3. Do I need a lawyer to file a complaint?
   No. You are not required to have legal representation, but you may choose to consult one if you wish.
4. What happens after I file my complaint?
   The MCHR will investigate your claim, may seek mediation, and can escalate to a hearing or lawsuit if needed.
5. Where can I get the official complaint form?
   The Discrimination Complaint Form – Housing is available from the Missouri Commission on Human Rights.

Key Takeaways for Missouri Renters

• Missouri and federal law protect renters from disability discrimination.
• The Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR) is the official state body to handle housing discrimination complaints.
• Filing a complaint is free, and forms are available directly from the MCHR website.

If you believe you've been discriminated against, follow the steps above to protect your rights and access help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Commission on Human Rights: File a Complaint — Complaint process, forms, and contact info
• MCHR Contact Page — For assistance or questions (phone/email listed)
• HUD Fair Housing – Missouri — Federal resources and online complaint portal
• Missouri Human Rights Act – Housing Law — Full state statute

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1. Missouri Human Rights Act — Section 213.040
2. Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR) – Complaint Filing
3. MCHR Discrimination Complaint Form – Housing (PDF)
4. HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process

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