Fair Housing Testing and Enforcement in Nevada

If you're renting in Nevada and believe you've faced unfair treatment because of your race, gender, disability, or another protected class, understanding fair housing enforcement is essential. Nevada law protects renters from discrimination – and there are state and federal agencies dedicated to investigating, testing for, and enforcing these rights.

What Is Fair Housing Testing?

Fair housing testing is a method used by agencies to uncover illegal housing discrimination. Trained testers pose as renters with different protected characteristics to see if landlords treat them unequally. These findings help agencies prove violations and protect community housing rights.

Which Agencies Handle Housing Discrimination in Nevada?

If you suspect discrimination when renting in Nevada, you have several trusted agencies that can help:

• Nevada Equal Rights Commission (NERC) – Handles complaints of housing discrimination statewide.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Oversees federal fair housing law and investigates Nevada complaints.
• Nevada Rural Housing Authority (NRHA) Fair Housing Program – Provides resources and outreach for fair housing in Nevada’s rural communities.

You do not need an attorney to file a discrimination complaint. These agencies are here to support you at no cost.

How to Report Housing Discrimination in Nevada

If you think you’ve been discriminated against:

• Record details of what happened and keep all relevant documents.
• Submit an official complaint form to the Nevada Equal Rights Commission (NERC) or HUD within one year of the alleged discriminatory act.

Key Official Forms for Nevada Renters

• NERC Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
  Download form from NERC
  When to use it: If you believe a landlord or housing provider in Nevada has discriminated against you, complete this form and submit it to NERC.
  How to use: For example, a renter who was denied an apartment based on their disability can fill out this form, attach any supporting evidence, and return it to the NERC offices listed on the document. You may mail or deliver it in person.
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (Form 903)
  File online with HUD
  When to use it: Submit this federal form if you experienced discrimination anywhere in Nevada, even if you’ve already reported to NERC.
  How to use: An example: If you suspect a landlord is charging higher rent because of your family status, complete the online or printable HUD 903 form and follow the submission instructions.

The NERC and HUD will investigate complaints (sometimes using fair housing testers), attempt to resolve the problem, and may take legal action if discrimination is found.

Fair Housing Testing in Nevada: What Renters Should Know

The Nevada Equal Rights Commission or HUD may use fair housing testing to compare how landlords treat different applicants. Testers never take away actual homes – they’re just checking for potential discrimination. Test results can support your complaint or trigger independent enforcement action.

Relevant Tenancy Legislation in Nevada

Renters’ rights in Nevada are protected by:

• Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 118 – Discrimination in Housing – Details your protected rights and landlords’ obligations.
• Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 118A – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Covers all general rental protections.
• Federal Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. §§ 3601-3619) – Federal law prohibiting housing discrimination nationwide.

The U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division also enforces federal anti-discrimination rules and can get involved in severe cases.

How to Submit a Housing Discrimination Complaint

Filing a complaint is straightforward. Here are the steps to guide you:

• Download or access the appropriate complaint form from the NERC or HUD websites.
• Fill out the form completely, detailing what happened, where, and when.
• Attach any supporting evidence (emails, photos, messages, witness statements).
• Submit the form online, by mail, or in person to the correct agency.
• Follow up with the agency to check your case's progress.

After you file, NERC or HUD will contact you for more information, may conduct fair housing testing, and keep you updated through the process.

FAQ: Nevada Fair Housing Testing and Enforcement

1. What types of discrimination are illegal in Nevada housing?
   It is illegal for landlords to discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, gender identity, or sexual orientation under state and federal law.
2. Can I file a complaint if I don’t have written proof?
   Yes. Verbal statements, your account of events, or the agency’s own fair housing testing can support your claim.
3. How long do I have to file a housing discrimination complaint?
   You have one year from the date of the alleged discriminatory act to file with NERC or HUD.
4. Who investigates housing discrimination cases in Nevada?
   The Nevada Equal Rights Commission (NERC) and HUD both investigate cases, sometimes using testers for evidence.
5. Will my landlord know I filed a complaint?
   NERC and HUD protect your confidentiality as much as possible, but some information may be shared during an investigation.

Key Takeaways for Nevada Renters

• Renters are protected from housing discrimination under both Nevada and federal law.
• You can file an official complaint with the Nevada Equal Rights Commission or HUD if you suspect discrimination.
• Fair housing testing is an important enforcement tool; don’t hesitate to reach out to agencies for help even if you’re unsure.

If you have questions or concerns, reaching out early increases your chances of getting support and protecting your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nevada Equal Rights Commission (NERC)
  Phone: 702-486-7161 (Las Vegas), 775-823-6690 (Reno)
  Email: NERC-complaints@detr.nv.gov
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process
• Nevada Rural Housing Authority Fair Housing Support
• Nevada Legal Services – Tenant Advocacy
• Nevada NRS 118 – Discrimination in Housing (Legislation)

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1. Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 118 – Discrimination in Housing
2. Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 118A – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
3. Nevada Equal Rights Commission (NERC)
4. HUD Online Complaint Tools and Forms
5. U.S. Department of Justice – Fair Housing Overview

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