Filing a Complaint Against Your Landlord in Utah: Renter's Guide

If you're renting in Utah and facing unresolved issues with your landlord, such as denied repairs, sudden rent increases, improper evictions, or concerns about your rights, understanding the process to formally complain can help protect your interests. This guide outlines the steps, forms, and agencies involved in filing a complaint against your landlord in Utah, using straightforward language and official government resources.

Understanding Your Tenant Rights in Utah

In Utah, residential tenancies are primarily governed by the Utah Fit Premises Act and the Utah Code Title 78B, Chapter 6 (Forcible Entry and Detainer). These laws define a landlord's obligations, outline renter protections, and set rules for maintenance, rent, and eviction procedures.¹

When Should You File a Complaint Against Your Landlord?

Filing a complaint is advised when your landlord:

• Fails to make necessary repairs after written notice
• Violates your right to quiet enjoyment (e.g., illegal entry)
• Issues improper notices to vacate or evict
• Discriminates against you based on race, disability, family status, or other protected categories
• Retaliates after you assert your rights

First, try discussing the issue with your landlord. If that doesn't resolve it, there are formal steps you can take.

Main Ways to File a Complaint in Utah

In Utah, the process for addressing complaints depends on the issue:

• Health and safety concerns: Contact your local city or county housing/building inspections office. They enforce the Utah Fit Premises Act standards.
• Discrimination complaints: File with the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division (UALD), which handles fair housing violations.
• Eviction or deposit disputes: These are handled in state or local court. There is no “Landlord-Tenant Board” in Utah—disputes may involve filing a lawsuit in Utah district or justice courts.

Official Complaint Forms and How to Use Them

• UALD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (PDF)
  Use this if you believe your landlord discriminated against you in violation of fair housing laws.
  Example: If a landlord refuses to rent to you because you have children, complete and submit this form to UALD. Send it via email, mail, or fax—details are on the form.
• Notice of Deficient Condition or Noncompliance
  This is not a government form, but under the Utah Fit Premises Act, you must provide written notice to your landlord about property issues before seeking further action or reporting to local authorities.
  Example: If your apartment has no heat in winter, send your landlord written notice (keep a copy), wait the required response period (often 3 days for urgent repairs), then contact your local code enforcement or housing inspection office if unresolved.

For issues like security deposit disputes or illegal evictions, you may need to file a claim or answer with your local district or justice court via forms such as "Complaint" or "Answer". Forms can be found on the Utah Courts Forms Page.

Which Agency Handles Landlord-Tenant Complaints?

Utah does not have a separate landlord-tenant tribunal. Complaints are handled through:

• Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division (UALD) (for discrimination issues)
• Your local city or county housing/code enforcement office (for health and safety concerns)
• Utah State Courts (for legal disputes, including eviction, unlawful entry, or deposit recovery)

Always gather supporting evidence, such as photos, receipts, or written communications, when preparing your complaint.

Steps to File a Complaint in Utah

1. Send written notice to your landlord describing the problem and your requested solution, keeping a dated copy.
2. If unresolved, submit a complaint:
   • For discrimination: Complete the UALD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form and send it to UALD.
   • For health/code violations: Contact your city or county housing/code enforcement with proof of your written notice.
   • For other disputes: File through your local court forms portal.
3. Wait for investigation or a response from the agency or court. Respond promptly to requests for more information.

FAQ: Utah Renters' Complaint Process

1. Who do I contact if my landlord won't fix serious maintenance or safety issues?
   You should give written notice to your landlord first. If unresolved, report the issue to your local city or county code enforcement office, which ensures habitability under the Utah Fit Premises Act.
   
2. Can I file a complaint if I believe my landlord is discriminating against me?
   Yes, illegal housing discrimination complaints can be filed with the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division (UALD) using their official complaint form.
   
3. What if my landlord is trying to evict me unfairly?
   Eviction disputes must be handled through Utah’s court system. If you receive an eviction notice, read your rights under the Forcible Entry and Detainer statutes and consider responding with help from the Utah State Courts.
   
4. Are there any official landlord-tenant boards in Utah?
   No, Utah does not have a separate landlord-tenant board or tribunal. Most disputes are resolved via the courts or specific state or local agencies.
   
5. Is there a fee to file a housing discrimination complaint?
   No, filing a fair housing complaint with UALD is free. Court disputes may involve filing fees, but fee waivers are available for those who qualify.
   

Key Takeaways for Utah Renters

• Utah renters should first notify landlords in writing before escalating complaints.
• Discrimination complaints go through UALD; other disputes involve local agencies or courts.
• Keep copies of all communications and documentation to support your case.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division (UALD) – For reporting housing discrimination; phone (801) 530-6801
• Utah State Courts Self-Help Center – Eviction and small claims assistance: (888) 683-0009
• Utah Legal Services – Free legal help for low-income renters
• Your local code enforcement office – Find contact info by county or city

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1. See the Utah Fit Premises Act and the Utah Code Forcible Entry and Detainer statutes for official laws governing landlord-tenant rights in Utah.
2. Find discrimination reporting details and forms at the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division website.
3. Court procedures and landlord-tenant forms are available through the Utah State Courts Forms page.
4. Search for local code enforcement contacts on the Utah County Directory.

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