LGBTQ+ Housing Rights: Missouri Renters' Protections Explained

Understanding the rights and protections against discrimination is vital for renters in Missouri, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community. While federal laws offer some coverage, state and local rules can affect how well protected you are from housing discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. This article breaks down what these legal protections look like in Missouri, how to recognize housing discrimination, and what steps to take if you experience it.

What Protections Exist for LGBTQ+ Renters in Missouri?

In Missouri, LGBTQ+ renters are covered by a patchwork of federal, state, and local protections:

• Federal Protections: The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) interprets the Fair Housing Act to prohibit discrimination against renters based on sexual orientation and gender identity.^[1]
• State Law: Missouri’s statewide law does not explicitly include sexual orientation or gender identity as protected categories, but several cities (like St. Louis, Kansas City, and Columbia) do offer local protections.^[2]

For many LGBTQ+ Missourians, federal law is the main safety net when facing discrimination by a landlord or housing provider.

Examples of Housing Discrimination

Discrimination can happen at any stage of the renting process. Examples include:

• Being refused a showing or lease because you are LGBTQ+
• Receiving different rental terms or higher prices due to your identity
• Harassment or threats from a landlord based on sexual orientation or gender identity

If you suspect discrimination, it helps to document what happened and collect any evidence, like emails or messages.

Your Rights Under Missouri Law

Missouri’s main landlord-tenant law is the Missouri Landlord-Tenant Laws (Chapter 441 RSMo). While this chapter covers leases, security deposits, and evictions, it does not grant specific statewide protections for LGBTQ+ renters. Protections come mainly from:

• The federal Fair Housing Act (covers most rental housing)
• Local ordinances in cities such as St. Louis and Kansas City

Where Can You File a Housing Discrimination Complaint?

Depending on your location in Missouri, you may file a complaint with:

• HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity
• Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR) — Note that as of now, MCHR does not enforce protections based on sexual orientation or gender identity statewide, but will investigate if local law applies.^[3]
• Your local city civil rights department, if your city has passed its own LGBTQ+ protections

Official Form: HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (Form 903)

Missouri renters who experience or suspect discrimination can use HUD Form 903:

• Form name: Housing Discrimination Complaint (HUD Form 903)
• When to use: If you believe you’ve been denied housing, given unfavorable rental terms, or harassed because of your sexual orientation or gender identity
• How to use: Complete online or mail/fax a copy to HUD (instructions on the form)
• Submit a Fair Housing Complaint online (HUD)
• Download HUD Form 903 (PDF)

Example: You applied for an apartment and the landlord told you they "don’t rent to people like you" after learning you have a same-sex partner. You can fill out Form 903 and submit your complaint to HUD.

What Happens After You File a Discrimination Complaint?

After submitting your complaint, you can expect HUD or the relevant city/county agency to:

• Contact you for more information
• Notify the landlord of the complaint and begin an investigation
• Attempt to resolve the issue, possibly through mediation
• In some cases, pursue legal action or refer to the U.S. Department of Justice

Your Local Rights May Differ

Many larger Missouri cities have passed ordinances that provide strong protections for LGBTQ+ renters. Check with your city’s civil rights department for details and complaint forms. For example:

• St. Louis Civil Rights Enforcement Agency
• Kansas City Human Relations Department

Local ordinances may provide a broader definition of discrimination and faster resolution timelines.

FAQ: LGBTQ+ Housing Protections in Missouri

1. Does Missouri state law specifically protect LGBTQ+ renters from discrimination?
   Not at the statewide level, but many cities have their own ordinances. Federal law does protect LGBTQ+ renters in most cases.
2. How do I file a complaint if I believe I was discriminated against?
   You can file with HUD using the official online complaint form, or check if your city has a local fair housing office.
3. Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because of my sexual orientation or gender identity?
   Not legally, under federal Fair Housing Act guidance. Local ordinances may offer further protection.
4. Are protections the same all over Missouri?
   No. Protections may be stronger in some cities with their own LGBTQ+ anti-discrimination laws.

Key Takeaways for LGBTQ+ Renters in Missouri

• The Fair Housing Act protects LGBTQ+ renters from discrimination, even if Missouri law is silent on the issue statewide
• If you experience or suspect discrimination, you should gather evidence and file a complaint using HUD Form 903 or through city offices
• Your best local protections may be offered by city ordinances in places like St. Louis and Kansas City

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• HUD Fair Housing & Equal Opportunity
• Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR) - Housing
• St. Louis Civil Rights Enforcement Agency
• Kansas City Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity Office
• Missouri Landlord-Tenant Laws – Chapter 441 RSMo

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1. HUD – Fair Housing Act Overview
2. Missouri Revisor of Statutes: Missouri Landlord-Tenant Laws (Chapter 441 RSMo)
3. Missouri Commission on Human Rights: Fair Housing Discrimination Information

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