Virginia Fair Housing Testing and Enforcement: A Renter's Guide

Every renter in Virginia deserves fair treatment when searching for housing or dealing with a landlord. Discrimination — whether based on race, disability, family status, or other protected characteristics — is strictly prohibited under state and federal law. Understanding how fair housing testing works and which agencies can help you can be vital if you suspect discrimination.

Understanding Fair Housing Testing in Virginia

Fair housing testing is a process used to uncover illegal discrimination by landlords, property managers, or housing providers. Specially trained individuals (testers) pose as renters to document whether everyone receives equal treatment regardless of race, religion, sex, disability, or other protected status under the Virginia Fair Housing Law.

• Testing is often conducted by nonprofit organizations or government agencies.
• The goal is to identify discriminatory practices and gather evidence that may support enforcement or complaints.

If you've faced housing discrimination, these testing results can help prove your case.

Fair Housing Enforcement Agencies in Virginia

Multiple agencies enforce fair housing laws in Virginia. The primary state agency is the Virginia Fair Housing Office (VFHO), which is part of the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR).

• Virginia Fair Housing Office (VFHO)
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
• Local human rights commissions and nonprofit organizations also provide support and education.

If you believe you're experiencing discrimination, these agencies can help investigate and resolve your complaint confidentially.

Protected Classes in Virginia

The Virginia Fair Housing Law protects people from discrimination based on:

• Race, color, religion, national origin
• Sex, pregnancy, elderliness (age 55+), familial status (families with children), disability
• Source of funds (like rental assistance or housing vouchers)

If you suspect you've been treated unfairly due to any protected characteristic, you have the right to file a complaint.

How to File a Fair Housing Complaint in Virginia

Filing a complaint is a free process and is strictly confidential. Complaints can be made directly with the Virginia Fair Housing Office or with HUD. It's best to file as soon as possible after the incident (generally within one year).

Relevant Official Forms

• Virginia Fair Housing Complaint Form (DPOR-Fair Housing Complaint Form)
  Download the Fair Housing Complaint Form (PDF)
  When to use: Use this form if you believe you have experienced discrimination in housing in Virginia. For example, if a landlord refuses to rent to you because of your race or because you use a housing voucher, complete and submit this form.
• HUD Form 903 Online Complaint Form
  Submit a complaint online with HUD
  When to use: If you want to file your complaint federally, or if the discrimination crosses state lines, submit this online form. HUD will refer your complaint to the appropriate state or local agency as needed.

For both forms, provide details about what happened, when, and who was involved. Keep any emails, texts, or documents related to your situation.

What Happens After You File a Complaint?

Once submitted, your complaint will be reviewed. The agency may:

• Reach out for more details or supporting documents
• Open an investigation, which may involve additional fair housing testing
• Attempt to mediate or resolve the situation
• If discrimination is found, pursue legal remedies or penalties

Tribunal Handling Fair Housing Disputes

In Virginia, the primary agency handling fair housing disputes is the Virginia Fair Housing Office. Some cases may also be escalated to the General District Court if mediation or agency enforcement does not resolve the issue.

All actions and rights for renters are based on the Virginia Fair Housing Law and the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^1,2

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the deadline to file a fair housing complaint in Virginia?
   Generally, you must file your complaint within one year from the date of the alleged discrimination.
2. Is filing a fair housing complaint confidential?
   Yes, your personal information and complaint details are handled confidentially by the Virginia Fair Housing Office and HUD.
3. Can I get help filling out the Fair Housing Complaint Form?
   Yes. You can call the Virginia Fair Housing Office for guidance or visit their office to get assistance with the form.
4. Does the law protect me from retaliation if I file a complaint?
   Absolutely. It is illegal for a landlord or property manager to retaliate against you for exercising your fair housing rights.
5. What remedies are available if discrimination is found?
   You may receive compensation, be able to move into the housing you were denied, or see other corrective actions taken against the landlord or provider.

Key Takeaways for Virginia Renters

• Fair housing laws protect you from discrimination based on many factors, including race, disability, and use of housing vouchers.
• There are free, confidential ways to file a discrimination complaint both statewide and federally.
• The Virginia Fair Housing Office enforces these laws and can provide guidance every step of the way.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Virginia Fair Housing Office — Call 804-367-8530 or email FairHousing@dpor.virginia.gov
• HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity
• Virginia Housing - Renter Resources
• Virginia Fair Housing Law

---

1. Virginia Fair Housing Law (Va. Code Title 36, Chapter 5.1)
2. Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Va. Code Title 55.1, Chapter 12)
3. Virginia Fair Housing Office (VFHO)
4. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Fair Housing

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations