Filing a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Rhode Island

If you believe you have faced housing discrimination as a renter in Rhode Island, you have rights under state and federal law. Understanding the complaint process can empower you to take action and protect yourself against unfair practices by landlords, property managers, or housing providers.

Understanding Fair Housing Protections in Rhode Island

Rhode Island law, alongside the federal Fair Housing Act, makes it illegal for landlords and others involved in housing to discriminate based on:

• Race or color
• National origin
• Religion
• Sex (including gender identity or sexual orientation)
• Disability
• Familial status (families with children under 18)
• Age, marital status, and other protected classes under Rhode Island law¹

This covers actions like refusing to rent, offering different lease terms, harassment, or policies that unfairly impact certain groups. If you suspect discrimination, you have the right to file a complaint with state or federal agencies.

Who Oversees Fair Housing Complaints in Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights (RICHR) is the main agency that investigates housing discrimination complaints. RICHR works in partnership with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). You can file at the state, or directly with HUD, or both.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

Filing a complaint is free and can be done by anyone who believes they were treated unfairly based on a protected characteristic. Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Gather Evidence

• Make a detailed note of what happened—including dates, times, and exactly what was said or done.
• Collect any communication, documents, rental ads, or messages related to your housing situation.

Step 2: Fill Out the Fair Housing Complaint Form

Your main document is the RICHR Housing Discrimination Complaint Form. It is used to officially report your case and triggers an investigation.

• When to Use: If you think you experienced discrimination by a landlord, realtor, or management company in Rhode Island.
• Where to Get It: Download and print the form from the official RICHR website (Housing Intake Questionnaire).
• How to Use: Complete all sections, including details of what happened. Attach supporting evidence whenever possible.

If you need help completing the form, you can contact RICHR staff for assistance by phone or in person.

Step 3: Submit Your Complaint

• You can deliver the form in person, by mail, or email it to complaints@richr.ri.gov.
• Contact details and mailing address are on the RICHR contact page.

Step 4: Cooperate With the Investigation

• RICHR will review your complaint and may contact you for more information or an interview.
• Both you and the landlord/housing provider will have a chance to tell your side of the story.

Filing Directly With HUD

You can also file with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) online using their Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (HUD-903 Online). It covers both federal and state violations and will route your case as needed.

• Download the HUD Discrimination Complaint Form (HUD-903.1) if you prefer to print and mail.

Start your complaint as soon as possible. There are time limits: under federal law, you must file within one year of the alleged discrimination, and under Rhode Island law, generally within one year as well.

What Happens After You File?

Once your complaint is received, RICHR or HUD will investigate. This may include interviews and a request for mediation. If they find enough evidence of discrimination, possible outcomes include:

• Negotiated settlements between you and the landlord/property provider
• Mediation or public hearing
• Potential remedies such as compensation or requiring the landlord to change policies

If you are unsatisfied with the outcome, you may also be able to pursue the matter in civil court under the Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act.

Summary: Filing a Complaint Is Your Right

The complaint process is designed to be accessible, and you can receive help at every step. Even if you’re unsure whether your experience counts as discrimination, reaching out to RICHR or HUD is encouraged for confidential advice and support.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can file a housing discrimination complaint in Rhode Island?
   Anyone who believes they have experienced housing discrimination based on a protected class can file a complaint—regardless of immigration status or citizenship.
2. Is there a deadline for filing a complaint?
   Yes. Both Rhode Island and federal rules usually require filing within one year of the alleged action, though earlier is better for investigation purposes.
3. Will my landlord know I've made a complaint?
   Yes. The landlord or housing provider will be notified as part of the investigation, but retaliation against you for filing a complaint is strictly illegal.
4. Can I withdraw my complaint after filing?
   Yes. You may request to withdraw your complaint at any stage by notifying RICHR or HUD in writing.
5. Does filing a complaint cost anything?
   No. Filing a housing discrimination complaint with RICHR or HUD is completely free.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights (RICHR) – Main agency for fair housing complaints in RI.
• Phone: (401) 222-2661 • TTY: (401) 222-2664
• HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity – Federal support and complaint portal.
• RI Housing Renter Resources – Tenant rights information and local support.
• RI Courts Landlord-Tenant Rights and Resources

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1. Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act, R.I. Gen. Laws Title 34, Chapter 37
2. Rhode Island Attorney General Fair Housing Page
3. Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights (RICHR) – Official Website
4. HUD Fair Housing Complaint Portal
5. RICHR Housing Intake Questionnaire Form (Official)

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