Filing a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Ohio

If you believe you’ve faced housing discrimination in Ohio, you have rights and options. Under both federal and Ohio laws, renters cannot be treated unfairly in housing based on factors like race, color, sex, disability, religion, national origin, or family status. This guide will walk you through how to recognize discrimination and the process to file a complaint to protect your rights as a renter in Ohio.

What is Housing Discrimination?

Housing discrimination means being treated unfairly when renting, buying, or applying for a place to live because of protected personal characteristics. In Ohio, it’s illegal for landlords, property managers, or real estate professionals to:

• Deny housing or refuse to rent/sell for discriminatory reasons
• Set different terms, conditions, or privileges for certain renters
• Falsely claim a unit is unavailable
• Exaggerate requirements or delay maintenance because of a protected class

Laws protecting against these actions can be found in the Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4112 (Ohio Civil Rights Law) and the federal Fair Housing Act.^[1][2]

Your Rights Under Ohio Fair Housing Laws

Ohio’s laws protect you against discrimination based on:

• Race or color
• National origin
• Religion
• Sex (including sexual harassment)
• Disability
• Familial status (such as children under 18)
• Ancestry (added under Ohio law)

Where to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Ohio

Ohio renters can file a complaint with one or both of the following agencies:

• Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) – Handles complaints under state law
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Handles complaints under federal law

The OCRC is the designated agency for residential tenancy discrimination complaints in Ohio. You do not have to hire a lawyer to file.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

You should submit your complaint within one year of the alleged discrimination. The process is straightforward and can be done online, by mail, or in person. Here’s how:

• Gather details: Write down what happened, dates, witnesses, and keep any documents (emails, lease, etc.).
• Choose your agency: You can file with the OCRC, HUD, or both.
• Complete the correct form.

Key Forms for Filing a Complaint

• Ohio Civil Rights Commission Housing Discrimination Intake Form (Download the form here)
  Use this form to start your complaint with the OCRC. For example, if your landlord refused to rent to you after learning you have children, complete and submit this form to begin the process.
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (Form 903) (Download Form 903; Online Complaint Portal)
  This is the federal form for complaints to HUD. For example, if you were denied an accessible parking space due to a disability, you can file through this form.

After you file, both the OCRC and HUD will investigate the complaint, offer mediation, or potentially move toward legal enforcement if discrimination occurred.

What Happens After You File?

The agency will:

• Review your claim and assign an investigator
• Contact you and the landlord or property manager
• Gather evidence, interview witnesses
• Attempt mediation or conciliation
• Decide if discrimination occurred and, if proven, may order remedies (such as requiring policy changes, compensation, or fines)

This process is confidential and free for renters.

Ohio’s Housing Laws and Legislation

The key law for renters in discrimination cases is Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4112. This legislation explains your protections, complaint process, and landlord responsibilities. You may also reference the federal Fair Housing Act.

FAQ: Ohio Housing Discrimination Complaints

1. What types of housing discrimination are illegal in Ohio?
   Discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or ancestry is illegal.
2. Do I need evidence to file a complaint?
   You should provide as much evidence as possible (emails, notices, witness names), but you can file without it. The agency will investigate further.
3. Should I file with both OCRC and HUD?
   You can file with both; most often, your complaint will be “dual filed” to allow investigation under both state and federal law.
4. Is there a time limit for filing?
   Yes, complaints to the OCRC must be filed within one year of the alleged discriminatory act.
5. Will my landlord know I filed a complaint?
   Yes, the agency must notify all parties for a fair investigation, but retaliation by the landlord is illegal.

Key Takeaways

• Ohio protects renters from discrimination through strong state and federal laws.
• The complaint process is free and confidential, and no lawyer is required.
• Stick to official forms and file your claim within one year of the problem.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) – Main agency for Ohio housing discrimination complaints
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process
• Ohio Legal Aid – Free legal help for low-income renters
• Ohio Revised Code: Civil Rights Law (Chapter 4112)

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1. Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4112 – Civil Rights Law
2. Federal Fair Housing Act
3. Ohio Civil Rights Commission – Filing a Complaint
4. HUD Fair Housing Online Complaint Portal
5. Ohio Legal Aid Services

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