How to File a Complaint Against Your Landlord in Nebraska

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Nebraska and experiencing unresolved issues like unsafe conditions, improper rent increases, or unfair treatment, it’s important to know you have formal options to address your concerns. Nebraska state law provides renter protections, and you have the right to file a complaint if a landlord is not following their legal responsibilities.

Your Rights as a Renter in Nebraska

Nebraska’s Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act ensures that renters have a safe and habitable living space, clear notice before rent increases, and protection against unlawful eviction.^[1] Understanding these rights can help you identify when it’s appropriate to make a complaint—and what steps to take.

When Should You File a Complaint?

You may consider filing a formal complaint against your landlord if you’ve tried to address an issue directly but it remains unresolved. Common reasons include:

• Failure to make essential repairs (like plumbing, heat, or smoke detectors)
• Improper notice before rent increases or entry
• Discrimination or retaliation
• Security deposit issues after moving out

If possible, always document your requests or issues in writing before escalating to a formal complaint.

How to File a Complaint Against Your Landlord in Nebraska

In Nebraska, most rental complaints are handled locally by city or county housing or health departments. Statewide issues or unresolved local concerns can often be reported to the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC), especially for cases involving discrimination.

Key Steps to Take

• Document the Issue: Keep records of emails, letters, photos, and any prior communication with your landlord about the problem.
• Contact Local Authorities: For health or safety violations, contact your city or county’s housing or code enforcement office. For example, Omaha Code Enforcement allows you to file a rental complaint regarding unsafe conditions.
• Submit a Written Complaint: Most agencies provide complaint forms that can be submitted online or by mail. For discrimination, use the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission’s complaint process.

Official Complaint Forms in Nebraska

• NEOC Discrimination Complaint Intake Form
  Purpose: Renter believes discrimination occurred based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, familial status, or religion.
  How to Use: Complete the NEOC Housing Discrimination Intake Form online or print a copy. For example, if your landlord refuses to rent to you based on your background or disability, submit this form to the NEOC directly.
  
• Local Housing Code Complaint Forms
  Purpose: Renter has issues like lack of heat, unsafe wiring, or unsanitary conditions. The exact form varies by city or county.
  How to Use: Visit your local city or county health/housing department online. For Omaha, go to Omaha Code Enforcement Complaints and fill out the form as instructed.
  

The Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC) is the main agency for investigating discrimination complaints related to housing. For repairs or code issues, check your local government’s housing department website for the correct complaint form.

Nebraska Residential Tenancies Tribunal/Board

Nebraska does not have a centralized landlord-tenant tribunal. Rental disputes may be resolved in local county courts. For discrimination issues, they are handled by the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC).

Relevant Nebraska Tenant Laws

• Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Covers security deposits, maintenance, entry rules, and eviction^[1]
• Nebraska Fair Housing Law – Applies to discrimination in rental housing^[2]

Always refer to these statutes for the most accurate and up-to-date renter rights information.

What Happens After You File a Complaint?

After submitting your complaint, the relevant agency will typically:

• Review your documentation and contact you for more information if needed
• Investigate the complaint (which may involve inspecting the property or interviewing parties)
• Seek to resolve the issue, or, if not resolved, pursue legal remedies or require compliance

For discrimination cases, the NEOC will conduct a formal investigation and may offer mediation or a hearing.

FAQ

1. What if my landlord is not making required repairs?
   If your landlord refuses to make essential repairs, document your requests in writing and file a complaint with your city or county housing or health department. You may also seek assistance from the local courthouse if unresolved.
2. Is there a fee for filing a complaint?
   Most city, county, or state agency complaint processes in Nebraska are free of charge for tenants.
3. Can I be evicted for filing a complaint?
   No. Retaliatory eviction is prohibited under Nebraska law. Your landlord cannot evict you simply for exercising your legal rights.^[1]
4. Who handles discrimination complaints in Nebraska?
   The Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC) is responsible for handling housing discrimination complaints statewide.
5. Where can I find Nebraska tenant law information?
   Official Nebraska tenant laws are available at the Nebraska Legislature site.

Conclusion: What Renters Should Remember

• Your rights are protected by Nebraska law—always document and act if issues go unresolved.
• Use official city/county forms or the NEOC for discrimination and keep evidence of your complaint.
• Local resources and official legislation links are your best guide in rental disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC) – Housing Discrimination: 800-642-6112
• Nebraska Judicial Branch - Landlord/Tenant Self-Help
• Legal Aid of Nebraska: Free civil legal assistance for low-income tenants
• Contact your local city or county housing department for code and repair complaints

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1. Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Neb. Rev. Stat. 76-1401 to 76-1449
2. Nebraska Fair Housing Law and Discrimination Complaint Process

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