Filing a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Vermont

If you’re a renter in Vermont facing possible housing discrimination, it's important to know your rights and the steps you can take to stand up for yourself. Vermont law and the federal Fair Housing Act protect renters from unfair treatment based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, family status, disability, and other protected classes. This guide will walk you through what counts as housing discrimination, how to file a complaint, and where to get official help.

What is Housing Discrimination?

Housing discrimination happens when a landlord, property manager, or housing provider treats you differently because you belong to a protected class. In Vermont, this includes discrimination based on:

• Race or color
• Religion
• National origin
• Sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation)
• Disability
• Familial status (families with children)
• Age
• Marital status
• Receipt of public assistance

Examples of discrimination could include being denied an apartment because you have children, a landlord refusing to allow a service animal for a disability, or different rental terms because of your background.

Your Rights Under Vermont Law

The main law protecting you in Vermont is the Vermont Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act. This legislation aligns with federal protections but also adds Vermont-specific classes. The Vermont Human Rights Commission is the main agency for investigating complaints involving most rental properties. Some complaints may also be addressed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Vermont

If you believe you’ve been discriminated against, you have the right to file a complaint. The Vermont Human Rights Commission and HUD both accept complaints, and you may file with one or both agencies.

1. Vermont Human Rights Commission (VHRC)

• Official Tribunal/Board: Vermont Human Rights Commission
• Handles most housing discrimination complaints except for those involving federally funded housing projects and certain owner-occupied units.

2. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

• Handles federal fair housing complaints and works with state agencies.
• You can also file a complaint through HUD's Fair Housing Complaint process.

Official Complaint Forms and How to Use Them

• VHRC Intake Questionnaire
  • Form Name: Vermont Human Rights Commission Housing Intake Questionnaire
  • How to Use: Use this form to start your complaint with the VHRC if you believe a landlord, property manager, or other housing provider in Vermont has discriminated against you. Complete the form with as much detail as possible; for example, explain if an apartment listing was suddenly removed after the landlord met you.
  • Download the Housing Intake Questionnaire (PDF)
• HUD Housing Discrimination Form 903
  • Form Name and Number: HUD Form 903 – Housing Discrimination Complaint
  • How to Use: File this federal complaint if the discrimination concerns federally-funded properties or if you want HUD to investigate. For example, use it if your rental application was rejected after you disclosed your use of a Section 8 voucher.
  • Access HUD Form 903
  • Or, file a HUD complaint online.

What Happens After You File?

After you submit your complaint, an investigator will review your information. The agency may:

• Contact you for additional details
• Gather evidence or speak to witnesses
• Try mediation to resolve the issue
• If necessary, schedule a hearing or issue a ruling

The process can take several months, but you’ll receive updates from the agency on your case status.

Key Vermont Tenancy Legislation

• Vermont Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 139)
• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137)
• Federal Fair Housing Act

These laws protect renters and outline what landlords can and cannot do in Vermont, including rules against discrimination.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the deadline to file a housing discrimination complaint in Vermont?
   Complaints to the Vermont Human Rights Commission should generally be filed within one year of the alleged discriminatory act.
2. Can I file both state and federal complaints?
   Yes, you may file with the VHRC and HUD at the same time. The agencies may determine which will handle your case, but your rights are protected either way.
3. What if my landlord retaliates after I file a complaint?
   It is illegal under Vermont and federal law for a landlord or property manager to retaliate against you for asserting your fair housing rights.
4. Do I need a lawyer to file a housing discrimination complaint?
   No, you can file a complaint with the VHRC or HUD on your own. However, support is available, and legal help can be sought if you wish.

Conclusion

• Vermont renters are protected from housing discrimination by state and federal law.
• Filing a complaint is a free and accessible process—forms and support are available online.
• If you feel your housing rights have been violated, you have options and resources to help you seek justice.

Knowing your rights and taking action can help both you and the broader Vermont community.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Human Rights Commission – File or check complaint status
• VHRC – Overview of services
• HUD – File a Fair Housing Discrimination Complaint Online
• Vermont Legal Aid – Tenant Help and Resources
• Vermont Department of Financial Regulation – Fair Housing Bulletin

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1. Vermont Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 139): Full text here
2. Vermont Human Rights Commission: File a complaint or check case status
3. HUD Fair Housing Complaint Portal: File online
4. HUD Form 903 – Housing Discrimination Complaint: Access PDF
5. Vermont Legal Aid: Access resources and support

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