Filing a Housing Discrimination Complaint in New Hampshire

If you believe you've experienced housing discrimination as a renter in New Hampshire, you have important rights and clear steps to seek help. Federal and New Hampshire state laws protect you from discrimination based on factors like race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, and marital status. Understanding the complaint process ensures you're empowered to take action and protect your right to fair housing.

What is Housing Discrimination?

Housing discrimination happens when a landlord, property manager, or housing provider treats someone unfairly because of personal characteristics protected by law. Examples include refusing to rent, giving different terms, or harassing you based on your race, disability, or family status.

Protected Classes Under New Hampshire and Federal Law

• Race and color
• National origin
• Religion
• Sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity)
• Disability
• Familial status (having children under 18)
• Age and marital status (under NH law)

Both federal Fair Housing Act and the New Hampshire Law Against Discrimination (RSA 354-A) protect renters from these forms of discrimination.^[1]

Who Handles Housing Discrimination Complaints in New Hampshire?

The New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights (NHCHR) is the official state agency responsible for investigating and enforcing New Hampshire’s anti-discrimination laws in housing. You can file a complaint with NHCHR or the federal U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It’s recommended to file with NHCHR if the discrimination happened in New Hampshire.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

Filing a complaint is free and does not require a lawyer. Here’s how you can start the process as a New Hampshire renter:

Step 1: Gather Evidence

• Write down what happened, when, and who was involved
• Save documents like emails, leases, text messages, or witness contact info

Step 2: Complete the Official Complaint Form

The main form for renters is the NHCHR Housing Discrimination Complaint Form. This form is for anyone who has been discriminated against in housing within New Hampshire.

• Form Name: Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
• Form Number: Not assigned
• When & How to Use: Use this form if you have been denied housing, treated unfairly, or retaliated against because of a protected characteristic. Complete the form with details about your experience. For example, if a property manager denied your rental application due to your disability, you would fill out this form describing the incident.
• Download the official NHCHR Housing Discrimination Complaint Form

Step 3: Submit Your Complaint

• Submit by Mail, Fax, or in Person:
  New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights
  2 Industrial Park Drive, Concord, NH 03301
  Fax: (603) 271-6339
• Email Submissions: As of 2024, check with the NHCHR for email submissions; paper or fax is most common.
• Filing Deadline: Complaints must be filed within 180 days of the alleged incident.

Step 4: Investigation & Resolution

• NHCHR will review your complaint, then contact the involved parties for information
• They may try to mediate or settle the case
• If discrimination is found, remedies may include policy changes, damages, or other relief

The process may take several months. The agency will keep you updated.

Federal Housing Discrimination Complaints

You can also file a complaint with HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity if you prefer. Complaints submitted to HUD may also be referred to NHCHR.

Relevant Legislation and Rules

• New Hampshire Law Against Discrimination (RSA 354-A)
• Federal Fair Housing Act, Title VIII

It’s helpful to review these laws to understand your protections as a renter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What if I’m worried about my landlord retaliating if I file a complaint?
   Both New Hampshire law and the Fair Housing Act prohibit retaliation against renters who make a good-faith complaint. If retaliation occurs, include those details on your form.
2. Can I file a housing discrimination complaint online?
   New Hampshire complaints are typically submitted in writing or by fax. HUD offers an online filing option for federal complaints.
3. How long does the complaint process take?
   It varies, but most cases with NHCHR take several weeks to several months, depending on investigation complexity.
4. Do I need a lawyer to file a complaint?
   No, you do not need a lawyer to file a housing discrimination complaint in New Hampshire.
5. What happens if the commission finds discrimination?
   The NHCHR may order remedies like rent adjustments, damages, or policy changes to resolve the discrimination.

Key Takeaways for New Hampshire Renters

• Housing discrimination is illegal under state and federal laws
• The New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights is the main agency for local complaints
• Filing is free, and you are legally protected from retaliation

It’s always best to act promptly and keep detailed records when pursuing a complaint.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights (NHCHR) – Information, forms, and complaint help
• HUD Fair Housing Assistance – Federal guidance and complaint support
• New Hampshire Legal Aid – Free legal help for low-income renters
• RSA 354-A: New Hampshire Law Against Discrimination – Full text of state fair housing law

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1. New Hampshire RSA 354-A: Law Against Discrimination
2. Federal Fair Housing Act (Title VIII)
3. NHCHR Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
4. New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights

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