Filing a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Nevada

If you believe you've faced unfair treatment due to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, or family status while renting in Nevada, you have important rights under state and federal fair housing laws. This guide will walk you through how renters can recognize housing discrimination and file a formal complaint in Nevada to protect their right to fair housing.

What Counts as Housing Discrimination?

It's illegal for landlords, property managers, or housing providers to refuse to rent, raise the rent, or treat tenants differently due to specific "protected characteristics." Both the federal Fair Housing Act and the Nevada Fair Housing Law (NRS 118) prohibit such discrimination.

• Denying a rental application based on race, ethnicity, or national origin
• Refusing reasonable accommodations for a disability
• Evicting or threatening tenants due to religion, family status, or sex
• Advertising rental units as "adults only" (familial status discrimination)

If you experience actions like these, consider submitting a complaint to protect yourself and help prevent future discrimination.

Who Handles Housing Discrimination Complaints in Nevada?

The main agency overseeing fair housing enforcement in Nevada is the Nevada Equal Rights Commission (NERC). You may also file complaints with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity Office).

Official Complaint Forms and How to Use Them

• NERC Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
  Download the Nevada Housing Discrimination Complaint Form or access it through NERC’s official site.
  • When to use it: If you believe you were discriminated against when applying for or living in any housing covered under Nevada law.
  • Example: If a landlord refuses to rent to you after learning about your disability, you would use this form to submit details of what happened and request an investigation.
• HUD Form 903 Online Housing Discrimination Complaint
  Submit using the HUD fair housing complaint portal.
  • When to use it: If your complaint involves federal fair housing protections, or for additional federal investigation alongside your NERC complaint.
  • Example: If you believe you were denied an apartment after mentioning your race or because you have children, you can submit details and evidence here.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Nevada

Before you start, gather any records about the discrimination—emails, text messages, advertising materials, and a list of witnesses if available. Filing a complaint is free, and there are agencies ready to help you.

Steps to File a Complaint

• Download and fill out the NERC Housing Discrimination Complaint Form or complete the online HUD form.
• Describe what happened, including specific dates, the people involved, and why you believe discrimination occurred.
• Attach any supporting documents.
• Submit your form to NERC by mail, email, fax, or in person. Instructions are on the NERC website. You may also file directly with HUD’s online portal.
• The agency will contact you to review your complaint, may ask for additional information, and will open an investigation.

In most cases, you must file your complaint within one year of the alleged discrimination.

What Happens After You File?

After your complaint is received, the agency may investigate by interviewing witnesses, reviewing documents, and attempting conciliation (an agreement between you and the landlord). In some cases, if discrimination is found, you may receive remedies such as being offered the rental unit, compensation, or policy changes by the landlord. Every situation is unique, and outcomes can vary based on evidence and circumstances.

FAQ: Housing Discrimination Complaints in Nevada

1. What protections do I have under Nevada fair housing law?
   Nevada law protects against discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, familial status, or national origin. See NRS 118 for all protected classes.
2. How long do I have to file a fair housing complaint?
   Normally, you need to file within one year from the date of the discriminatory act.
3. Do I need an attorney to file a complaint?
   No. Both NERC and HUD investigate fair housing complaints whether or not you have a lawyer. You can also seek advocacy help if needed.
4. Can my landlord evict me for filing a discrimination complaint?
   No. Retaliation for reporting discrimination is illegal under both federal and Nevada law.
5. What if I’m not sure if my experience qualifies as discrimination?
   If you’re unsure, contact NERC for a confidential assessment. They can help determine your rights and next steps.

Conclusion: Know Your Rights and Take Action

• If you face discrimination in your housing search or tenancy, you have access to formal complaint processes in Nevada.
• You do not have to face unfair treatment alone—NERC and HUD are there to help you enforce your rights.
• Keep records and act quickly, as there are time limits for filing.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nevada Equal Rights Commission (NERC): Discrimination Complaint Process – Submit complaints, get forms, and contact NERC for help.
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process – File online complaints federally and learn about your rights.
• Nevada Housing Division – Resources for Tenants – Access housing assistance and tenant help information.
• Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada – Fair Housing Unit – Legal help for renters facing discrimination.

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1. Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118: Discrimination in Housing
2. Nevada Equal Rights Commission (NERC): How to File a Complaint
3. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Fair Housing Complaint Process
4. Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada: Fair Housing

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