Filing a Disability Discrimination Complaint as a Renter in Oregon

Living in Oregon, tenants with disabilities are protected by both federal and state fair housing laws. If you believe you've experienced discrimination by your landlord or property manager due to a disability, it's important to know your rights and the steps needed to file a claim. This guide outlines how Oregon renters can file a disability discrimination complaint, which forms you need, and where to find official support.

Your Rights as a Renter with a Disability in Oregon

As a renter, you have the right to equal treatment and reasonable accommodations under both the federal Fair Housing Act and the Oregon Fair Housing Act (ORS 659A.145). These laws require landlords to allow reasonable modifications and prevent discriminatory practices based on actual or perceived disabilities.^[1][2]

What is Disability Discrimination in Housing?

Some common examples of housing discrimination against people with disabilities include:

• Denying rental applications because of a disability
• Refusing reasonable modifications (like wheelchair ramps)
• Failing to provide reasonable accommodations (such as allowing service animals)
• Different rental terms or increased fees because of your disability

If any of these occur, you may have grounds for a claim.

How to File a Disability Discrimination Claim

In Oregon, renters can file a complaint about disability discrimination with either the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries Civil Rights Division (BOLI), which enforces Oregon's Fair Housing laws, or directly with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for federal protections.^[3]

Official Complaint Forms and How to Use Them

• BOLI Civil Rights Complaint Form — used to report discrimination in housing based on disability. This form is available online through BOLI.
  BOLI Civil Rights Complaint Form.
  Example: If your landlord refuses to allow you to install a grab bar in your bathroom, you would use this form to submit your complaint.
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (Form 903) — can be filed with HUD if you want to address a potential federal housing law violation.
  HUD Form 903 Online Complaint Portal.
  Example: If a property manager turns down your application after learning about your disability, you can use this form to report it to HUD.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Claim

Here's an overview to help you through the process:

• Collect all evidence (emails, notes, lease agreements, photos, etc.) about the incident
• Try to resolve the issue directly with your landlord if you feel comfortable
• If unresolved, choose where to file: state (BOLI) or federal (HUD)
• Complete the proper form. Provide as much detail as possible
• Submit the form online, by mail, or in person (instructions are on each agency's site)
• Keep copies of everything for your records
• Wait for follow-up from the agency. They may request more information or offer mediation

What Happens Next?

After you file your complaint, BOLI or HUD will review it to determine whether they can investigate. They may contact you for more details, attempt to mediate, or formally investigate. If discrimination is proven, remedies can include allowing the accommodation/modification, compensation, or penalties against the landlord.

Where Are Housing Discrimination Claims Heard?

While courts may become involved in some cases, in Oregon, most housing discrimination claims are managed by the BOLI Civil Rights Division. Some renters may also have their cases reviewed federally by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

FAQ: Oregon Disability Discrimination Claims for Renters

1. Can my landlord refuse a service animal?
   No. Under the law, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for service and support animals, even if the building has a "no pets" policy.^[1][2]
2. Is there a deadline to file a discrimination complaint?
   Yes. In Oregon, you generally have one year from the date of the incident to file with BOLI or HUD.^[3]
3. What if I am evicted after filing a claim?
   It's unlawful for landlords to retaliate against you for exercising your rights. Keep any documentation and add this to your complaint or file a new complaint about retaliation.^[2]
4. Do I need a lawyer to file a claim?
   No. While a lawyer can help, these agencies are set up to assist renters directly. Help is also available from BOLI and HUD representatives.
5. Can I request modifications to my unit?
   Yes. Landlords must allow reasonable disability-related modifications at your expense and cannot unreasonably deny your request.^[2]

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Oregon Renters

• Disability discrimination in rental housing is illegal under state and federal law
• Complaints can be filed through BOLI or HUD using official forms
• Retaliation for filing a complaint is also unlawful and can be reported

Reporting discrimination helps protect your rights and those of other renters in Oregon.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon BOLI Civil Rights Division (file and track complaints)
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Fair Housing Office
• Oregon Housing and Community Services – Rental Assistance
• U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division – Housing Discrimination

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1. Oregon Fair Housing Act (ORS 659A.145)
2. Overview of the Federal Fair Housing Act
3. How to File a Civil Rights Complaint – Oregon BOLI

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