Vermont Fair Housing Testing and Enforcement: Agencies & Your Rights

If you're a renter in Vermont, it's important to know your rights regarding fair housing and what steps you can take if you believe you’ve been discriminated against. Vermont law protects you from being treated unfairly because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and other protected classes. Specialized agencies perform fair housing testing and handle complaints to help enforce these rights and keep housing discrimination at bay.

What Is Fair Housing Testing and Why Does It Matter?

Fair housing testing is a process where trained individuals (testers) pose as renters to check if landlords or housing providers are following the law. These testers gather evidence to uncover possible discriminatory actions. This helps make sure everyone has equal access to housing in Vermont, regardless of background.

Vermont Agencies for Fair Housing Enforcement

Several official organizations in Vermont investigate and enforce fair housing laws:

• Vermont Human Rights Commission – handles housing discrimination complaints for most rental properties statewide.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Region 1 (New England) – accepts federal fair housing complaints, including in Vermont.
• CVOEO Fair Housing Project – provides renter education, outreach, and limited enforcement support.

If you suspect discrimination, these bodies can offer assistance and investigate your case. They may use fair housing testing, interviews, and other evidence-gathering to support your complaint.

How to File a Fair Housing Discrimination Complaint in Vermont

Vermont renters have multiple options for filing complaints, depending on the property and situation. Here are key forms and how to use them:

Vermont Human Rights Commission: Complaint Intake Form

• Form Name: Housing Discrimination Complaint Intake Form
• When to Use: If you believe you've faced discrimination based on protected categories while renting or seeking a rental in Vermont (excluding most owner-occupied small buildings).
• How It’s Used: Complete and submit the form to the Vermont Human Rights Commission to begin a formal investigation. For example, if a landlord refused to rent to you due to your race or disability, this is your first step.
• Download and submit the Vermont Human Rights Commission Intake Form

HUD Form 903 Online Complaint

• Form Name: HUD Form 903 – Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
• When to Use: If your issue involves federal protections or you wish to file directly with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
• How It’s Used: Complete the online complaint or download the paper form. For example, if you were denied an apartment because of family status (children), you can submit this form for HUD to investigate.
• File a HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Online

What Happens After You File a Complaint?

After receiving your complaint, the enforcing agency will review your case, gather more information, and may offer mediation. If discrimination is found, the agency can order relief, such as compensation or requiring the landlord to change their practices.

Tip: You do not need a lawyer to file a fair housing complaint. These agencies are designed to help renters and are free of charge.

Relevant Vermont Tenancy Law and Enforcement Board

Vermont state law protecting renters against discrimination can be found in the Vermont Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act (9 V.S.A. §§ 4500–4507).^[1]

The Vermont Human Rights Commission acts as the main tribunal handling residential fair housing complaints in the state.^[2]

FAQ: Vermont Fair Housing Testing and Enforcement

1. What counts as housing discrimination in Vermont?
   Any unfair treatment based on protected categories like race, religion, disability, or family status when renting, buying, or applying for housing can be discrimination.
2. How long do I have to file a housing discrimination complaint in Vermont?
   You generally must file your complaint within one year of the incident. So, act quickly if you believe your rights were violated.
3. Can I be evicted for filing a fair housing complaint?
   No. It’s illegal for a landlord to retaliate against you for asserting your fair housing rights or filing a complaint.
4. Are fair housing services free for Vermont renters?
   Yes, filing a complaint with the Vermont Human Rights Commission, HUD, or most local agencies is free of charge.
5. Does the Vermont Human Rights Commission handle all fair housing cases?
   It handles most cases, but certain small owner-occupied buildings may be excluded, and some situations fall under HUD’s jurisdiction.

Key Takeaways for Vermont Renters

• You are legally protected from discrimination in housing based on many personal characteristics.
• If you suspect unfair treatment, Vermont and federal agencies can investigate and enforce your rights.
• Reports, forms, and services are free—and you do not need a lawyer to take action.

Remember, fair housing laws are here to ensure everyone can rent or buy a home without barriers.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Human Rights Commission: 1-800-416-2010 or human.rights@vermont.gov
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Fair Housing
• CVOEO Fair Housing Project for guidance, support, and education
• Official Vermont Government Portal

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1. Vermont Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act, 9 V.S.A. §§ 4500–4507
2. Vermont Human Rights Commission – Official Site

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