Filing a Disability Discrimination Complaint as a Nebraska Renter

Facing discrimination due to a disability can be stressful, especially as a renter in Nebraska. State and federal laws protect your right to accessible housing, and if your landlord is not meeting these obligations, you have options. This article guides you through the process of filing a disability discrimination claim in Nebraska, explains the relevant forms, and helps you understand your rights under local and federal law.

Understanding Disability Discrimination in Housing

Disability discrimination means a landlord treats a renter unfairly because of their physical or mental disability. This can include refusing reasonable accommodations (like service animals or accessible parking), failing to make modifications, or harassment. Both the Nebraska Fair Housing Act and the federal Fair Housing Act protect renters with disabilities.

Your Rights as a Renter with a Disability

• Request reasonable accommodations for your disability (e.g., accessible entryways, service animals)
• Have your privacy and rights respected
• Be protected from retaliation for asserting your rights

If you are denied these rights, it may be considered discrimination.

Which Tribunal Handles Discrimination Claims in Nebraska?

In Nebraska, residential housing discrimination complaints are handled by the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC). The NEOC investigates housing discrimination complaints and enforces the Nebraska Fair Housing Act.

How to File a Disability Discrimination Complaint

You can file a complaint with the NEOC if you believe your landlord has discriminated against you because of your disability. Here are the steps:

Step 1: Gather Documentation

• Keep records of communication with your landlord
• Save any written requests for accommodations
• Document responses, denials, or delays

Step 2: Complete the Official Housing Discrimination Form

The form you need is the Housing Intake Questionnaire (NEOC Form). It starts the official process with the NEOC. You'll need to provide:

• Your contact information and rental address
• Details about the discrimination (dates, events, requested accommodations)
• Names of the parties involved

This form is available for download from the NEOC File a Complaint page. Choose the "Housing Complaint" option and follow instructions to submit your complaint by mail, email, or in-person.

Step 3: Submit Your Complaint

• Complete and sign the form
• Submit via email, mail, fax, or in-person to the NEOC
• Address: Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission, 301 Centennial Mall South, 5th Floor, Lincoln, NE 68508
• For questions, call 402-471-2024 (Lincoln), 402-595-2028 (Omaha), or 308-632-1340 (Scottsbluff)

The NEOC will review your complaint, may ask for more information, and will investigate as needed. Federal complaints can also be filed with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Common Scenarios When to Use the Form

• Your landlord refuses to allow a service animal despite documentation.
• Your reasonable request for an accessibility modification (like a wheelchair ramp) is ignored.
• You are treated differently or harassed after disclosing your disability.

What Happens After You File?

Once filed, the NEOC will review your complaint to determine if it is covered by the Nebraska Fair Housing Act. They will notify your landlord of the complaint, collect additional evidence if needed, and work to resolve the issue. Many cases are settled through mediation or conciliation, but if necessary, the NEOC can take your case further, including legal action.

Relevant Nebraska Laws and Legislation

• Nebraska Fair Housing Act
• Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Federal Fair Housing Act

FAQ: Disability Discrimination Complaints and Nebraska Renters

1. What is a "reasonable accommodation"?
   A reasonable accommodation is a change or exception to rules or policies to help someone with a disability use and enjoy their home, like allowing a service animal or installing a grab bar in the bathroom.
2. Is there a deadline to file a complaint in Nebraska?
   Yes. The Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission requires that most housing discrimination complaints be filed within one year of the alleged discrimination.
3. Can I be evicted for filing a disability discrimination complaint?
   No. It is illegal for your landlord to retaliate, including eviction, against you for asserting your rights or filing a complaint.
4. Is there a fee to file a housing discrimination complaint?
   No. Filing a complaint with the NEOC or HUD is free for renters.
5. What if my landlord refuses to fill out the NEOC form?
   Your complaint does not require your landlord's participation to be investigated. The NEOC will contact all parties as part of their process.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Nebraska law protects renters with disabilities from discrimination and guarantees the right to reasonable accommodations.
• File a complaint using the NEOC Housing Intake Questionnaire if you face discrimination.
• Support and resources are available to help guide you through the process.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• File a Housing Complaint – Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission
• Contact NEOC Offices and Assistance
• HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity
• Legal Aid of Nebraska
• Telephone Interpreting Services and TDD available through NEOC offices for persons with disabilities

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1. Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC)
2. Nebraska Fair Housing Act
3. Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
4. Federal Fair Housing Act

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