Oregon Fair Housing Testing and Enforcement Agencies Explained

Discrimination in renting is prohibited by law in Oregon. If you feel you have faced unfair treatment while renting—whether due to your race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, or family status—there are agencies in Oregon committed to protecting your rights as a renter. Understanding how these agencies operate and how you can access support makes all the difference.

Understanding Fair Housing Laws in Oregon

Oregon’s fair housing protections arise from both federal and state law. The primary legislation for Oregon renters is the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act and Oregon Fair Housing Laws (ORS Chapter 659A)^[1]. These laws make it illegal for a landlord or property manager to refuse to rent, apply different rules, or otherwise treat a renter unfairly because of a protected characteristic.

What Is Fair Housing Testing?

Fair housing testing is a process where trained individuals pose as renters to determine if rental providers are treating all applicants equally. This helps uncover and document discriminatory practices that may otherwise go unreported. Testing is an important tool for enforcement agencies to build cases and hold violators accountable.

Key Enforcement Agencies in Oregon

Several official bodies handle fair housing discrimination investigations and support renters:

• Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI), Civil Rights Division: BOLI is Oregon’s official state agency handling housing discrimination complaints. Renters can file formal complaints and seek guidance via BOLI’s Housing Discrimination page.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): HUD enforces federal fair housing laws and partners with local agencies. You can submit complaints through HUD’s online complaint form.
• Fair Housing Council of Oregon (FHCO): While not a government agency, FHCO is a HUD-approved fair housing organization providing education, complaint intake, and fair housing testing statewide. Learn about their programs at the Fair Housing Council of Oregon website.

These organizations investigate discrimination, conduct testing, and can refer cases for legal action if violations are confirmed.

How Do I File an Official Housing Discrimination Complaint?

If you believe your landlord or a rental company has discriminated against you, you have the right to file a complaint. The process in Oregon is simple and confidential:

• BOLI Housing Discrimination Intake Form: Use the online or PDF intake form to report discrimination to Oregon BOLI. This form asks for details about the incident and your housing situation.
  Example: If your rental application was denied after you disclosed a physical disability, you can fill out and submit this form online or by mail to launch an investigation.
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (Form HUD-903.1): This federal form is accepted by both HUD and many state agencies. Submit if your discrimination relates to any federally protected class. Complete it online or download a printable version.
  Example: If you are denied housing because of your national origin, complete HUD-903.1. You may file with both HUD and BOLI for overlapping state and federal coverage.

What Happens After Filing a Complaint?

After your complaint is submitted:

• The enforcement agency reviews your complaint for eligibility.
• If accepted, they contact you for additional information or documentation.
• Testing or further investigation may be conducted.
• You may be offered mediation before a formal investigation proceeds.
• If a violation is found, enforcement may include fines, required policy changes, or other remedies.

Oregon’s official complaint process is designed to be efficient and supportive for renters.

Oregon’s Official Tribunal for Rental Disputes

For legal disputes beyond discrimination—such as eviction, habitability, or repairs—the Oregon Judicial Department (through your county circuit court) hears residential landlord and tenant cases. Discrimination issues are handled primarily by BOLI and can lead to court action if necessary.

Relevant Legislation and How It Protects You

• Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90)
• Oregon Fair Housing Laws (ORS Chapter 659A)
• Federal Fair Housing Act

These laws make it illegal for a landlord to deny housing, charge different prices, or impose different conditions because of protected characteristics.

FAQ: Oregon Fair Housing Testing & Enforcement

1. Who can I contact if I think I have faced housing discrimination in Oregon?
   BOLI’s Civil Rights Division is the official agency for Oregon state discrimination complaints. HUD and the Fair Housing Council of Oregon also provide help.
2. Are there any fees to file a housing discrimination complaint?
   No. Both BOLI and HUD accept and investigate complaints free of charge to renters.
3. Can I file both a state and a federal fair housing complaint?
   Yes. You can file with both BOLI and HUD to ensure your rights are considered under both Oregon and federal law.
4. What does a fair housing test look like?
   Testing may involve testers posing as renters to document how a landlord or property manager responds to different applicants. This helps identify illegal discrimination practices.
5. What protection do I have from retaliation after filing a complaint?
   Oregon law and the Fair Housing Act make it illegal for landlords to retaliate against anyone for filing or participating in a discrimination complaint.

Key Takeaways for Oregon Renters

• Oregon provides strong protections against housing discrimination through state and federal laws.
• State and federal agencies investigate complaints and offer free support to renters.
• Testing and enforcement help ensure rental practices remain fair for everyone.

Know your rights and reach out to official agencies if you experience or suspect discrimination.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) Civil Rights Division: (971) 673-0761; housing complaint info and forms
• Fair Housing Council of Oregon: Free information, complaint intake, education, and advocacy for renters
• HUD Form 903.1 – Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (PDF)
• Oregon Judicial Department – Landlord and Tenant Law: For court processes and dispute resolution

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1. Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: ORS Chapter 90
2. Oregon Fair Housing Law: ORS Chapter 659A
3. HUD – Housing Discrimination Complaint Forms: Submit Online
4. BOLI Complaint Intake Form: File with BOLI
5. Oregon Judicial Department for Landlord-Tenant Cases: View details

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