Filing a Disability Discrimination Complaint as a Tennessee Renter

Facing discrimination as a renter is stressful, especially when it involves a disability. In Tennessee, strong state and federal laws protect your right to equal housing. If you believe your landlord has treated you unfairly due to a disability—such as denying reasonable modifications or accommodations—you can take action to protect your rights and ensure fair treatment.

Understanding Disability Discrimination in Housing

Disability discrimination happens when a landlord treats you differently, refuses reasonable accommodations, or denies tenancy due to your physical or mental disability. Under the Tennessee Human Rights Act and the federal Fair Housing Act, you have the right to request reasonable accommodations and modifications in your housing, and to file a complaint if your landlord does not comply.^[1][2]

Your Rights as a Renter with a Disability

• Requesting reasonable adjustments to rules, policies, or services (e.g., allowing a service animal even if pets aren’t allowed)
• Requesting reasonable modifications to your unit (e.g., installing grab bars or a ramp, at your own expense in some cases)
• Protection from eviction or unequal treatment due to your disability

If you’re unsure what counts as a reasonable accommodation, you can learn more from the Tennessee Human Rights Commission’s fair housing guidance.

How to File a Disability Discrimination Complaint

If you’ve been denied accommodations or feel discriminated against, you can file a complaint through the Tennessee Human Rights Commission (THRC). The THRC is the official state body responsible for investigating housing discrimination complaints.

Official Complaint Form

• Form Name: Tennessee Human Rights Commission Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
• Where to get it: THRC Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (PDF)
• When to use it: Complete and submit this form if you believe your landlord or property manager treated you unfairly because of your disability—such as refusing a service animal or failing to allow a reasonable modification. For example, if your building manager says "no ramps allowed," this form begins your formal complaint process.

How Complaints Are Handled in Tennessee

The THRC will review your complaint, contact the parties involved, and if necessary, investigate the situation. They may help mediate or pursue legal remedies. The THRC guide shows you the process in detail.

Step-by-Step: Filing Your Disability Discrimination Complaint

• Gather all documents related to the discrimination (emails, letters, lease agreement, photos).
• Download and complete the THRC Housing Discrimination Complaint Form.
• Send your completed form by email, mail, fax, or deliver it in person to the THRC office. Their contact details are provided on the form and on the official THRC contact page.
• Keep copies of everything you submit and any responses you receive.
• If you need help filling out the form, call the THRC at (800) 251-3589 for direct assistance.

You can file within 180 days of the discriminatory act, but it’s best to take action as soon as possible.

Your Rights and Remedies under Tennessee Law

The main legislation protecting you locally is the Tennessee Human Rights Act. For renters specifically, the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act applies in many counties and includes key protections against unfair treatment and eviction.^[3][4]

• THRC Fair Housing Rights Overview
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Filing a Fair Housing Complaint

After you file, the THRC will contact you with next steps and may begin an investigation or seek to mediate the situation. If your complaint also involves federal law, THRC can forward it to HUD if needed.

FAQ: Disability Discrimination Claims in Tennessee

1. How long do I have to file a disability discrimination claim in Tennessee?
   You have 180 days (about 6 months) from the date of the alleged discrimination to file a complaint with the Tennessee Human Rights Commission. It's best to act quickly.
2. Can I request a reasonable accommodation, even if I’ve already signed my lease?
   Yes. You can make a reasonable accommodation or modification request at any time during your tenancy, as protected by state and federal law.
3. What happens after I file my complaint?
   THRC reviews your complaint, may contact both parties for more details, and if needed, conducts an investigation. They can mediate or pursue legal remedies if discrimination is found.
4. Will my landlord know about my disability if I file a complaint?
   Your landlord may become aware through the complaint process, but you are protected against retaliation for making use of your legal rights.
5. Is there a fee to file a discrimination complaint with THRC?
   No, there is no fee to file a housing discrimination complaint through the Tennessee Human Rights Commission.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• You have the right to request reasonable accommodations or modifications—and to be protected from retaliation—under Tennessee and federal law.
• The Tennessee Human Rights Commission handles housing discrimination complaints. Use their official form and act within 180 days.
• Keep thorough records of all relevant communications, documents, and responses throughout the process.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tennessee Human Rights Commission (THRC) – State complaint investigators and support services. Contact Information: (800) 251-3589
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – National standards and complaint process overview
• TennCare Disability Rights & Advocacy – For additional advocacy and information
• THRC: Guide to Fair Housing Rights

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1. "Tennessee Human Rights Act." Read the full text: TN Human Rights Act
2. "Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. 3601 et seq)." See official federal legislation: Fair Housing Act
3. "Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act." Read the current TN law: Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
4. "THRC: File a Complaint." Official forms and complaint info: THRC File a Complaint

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