Fair Housing Testing and Renter Protections in Nebraska

Every renter in Nebraska deserves safe, fair, and discrimination-free housing. If you’re worried you’ve faced unfair treatment—because of your race, color, religion, disability, national origin, sex, familial status, or other protected status—state and federal laws protect you. Nebraska’s fair housing laws are enforced by dedicated agencies that test for discrimination and provide accessible complaint processes for renters in need.

Understanding Fair Housing Testing in Nebraska

Fair housing testing is a tool used by agencies to uncover discrimination in housing. A team of trained testers—often posing as prospective renters—contact or visit landlords to see if all applicants are being treated fairly.

• Testing helps detect unlawful discrimination even if it’s subtle or hidden.
• Results can lead to enforcement actions, policy changes, or legal consequences for discriminatory landlords or property managers.

What Does Fair Housing Law Cover?

Nebraska law (and the federal Fair Housing Act) prohibits housing discrimination based on:

• Race or Color
• Religion
• National Origin
• Sex
• Disability
• Familial Status (e.g., having children under 18)

The Nebraska Fair Housing Act aligns with these federal protections.^[1]

Nebraska Agencies That Enforce Fair Housing

Key organizations support renters facing discrimination in Nebraska:

• Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC): The state agency responsible for investigating fair housing complaints and enforcing rights. Visit the NEOC website for detailed information.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): Handles federal housing discrimination complaints. Learn more at HUD’s Equal Opportunity Office.

Filing a Fair Housing Discrimination Complaint

If you suspect discrimination, you can file a complaint with NEOC or HUD. This helps agencies investigate your case and take action if necessary. Nebraska’s official tribunal for these cases is NEOC.

Relevant Official NEOC Forms

• Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (NEOC)
  • Download the NEOC Housing Complaint Form
  • When to Use: If you believe you have faced discriminatory rental practices (for example, denied a lease because you have children), fill out and submit this form to NEOC as soon as possible.
• HUD Form 903.1 – Housing Discrimination Complaint
  • Access HUD Form 903.1 here
  • When to Use: Use this federal form if you want to file your complaint directly with HUD. For example, if you faced discrimination from a landlord who advertises in multiple states.

Practical Example: If a Nebraska landlord refuses to rent to a family with children, the renter can fill out the NEOC Housing Discrimination Complaint Form and submit it via mail, email, or in person to begin the investigation process.

What to Expect After Filing a Complaint

Once you file a complaint, the agency will:

• Review your information
• Initiate an investigation—including possible testing
• Contact the landlord or property manager for their side
• Attempt to resolve the issue (e.g., through mediation)
• If discrimination is confirmed, NEOC or HUD can order remedies—like financial compensation or requiring the landlord to change their practices

Summary: Nebraska provides clear, accessible avenues to report and resolve housing discrimination, helping renters stand up for their fair housing rights.

FAQs for Nebraska Renters on Fair Housing Enforcement

1. How do I know if I’ve been discriminated against in housing?
   If you’re treated differently because of race, religion, sex, disability, family status, or another protected class (like being told the apartment is unavailable for you but advertised for others), you may have a fair housing case.
2. Does filing a discrimination complaint cost anything?
   No, there is no fee to file a fair housing complaint with NEOC or with HUD.
3. How long does the NEOC investigation process take?
   Most investigations are completed within 100 days, but complex cases may take longer. You’ll be updated on the progress.
4. What types of evidence should I collect if I want to file a complaint?
   Save written correspondence, advertisements, notes of conversations, or any documents related to the rental process. This can help support your case.
5. Can my landlord retaliate against me for filing a complaint?
   Retaliation for filing a legitimate discrimination complaint is illegal under both Nebraska and federal law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC) – Report housing discrimination and get answers to common questions. Contact NEOC.
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process – File a federal complaint or learn about your rights.
• NEOC Housing Complaint Process Overview
• Nebraska Fair Housing Act (Full Text)

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1. Nebraska Fair Housing Act, Neb. Rev. Stat. §§20-318 to 20-322
2. Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission – Complaint Process
3. U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development – Fair Housing

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