Filing a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Washington

If you believe you've experienced housing discrimination as a renter in Washington, you have important rights and protections under state and federal law. This guide explains exactly how to take action, how the process works, and which official forms and resources can help you protect your fair housing rights in Washington.

Understanding Housing Discrimination in Washington

Housing discrimination occurs when a landlord, property manager, or housing provider treats someone unfairly due to characteristics like race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, familial status, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Both the federal Fair Housing Act and Washington's Law Against Discrimination (RCW 49.60) protect renters from this kind of unequal treatment.

Examples of Housing Discrimination

• A landlord refusing to rent to someone based on their race or religion
• Being denied a reasonable accommodation for a disability
• Receiving different lease terms or services because of your family status

If you think you've been treated unfairly for any protected reason, you may file a complaint.

Where to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

In Washington, you can file a complaint:

• With the Washington State Human Rights Commission (WSHRC), which enforces state anti-discrimination laws
• With the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for violations of federal law
• With certain city or county agencies if local laws provide additional protections

Most renters start with the WSHRC, as it offers free investigation and, when warranted, mediation or legal remedies.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

Follow these steps to file a complaint in Washington:

• Gather Details: Write down specific information: dates, addresses, names, what happened, and why you believe it was discrimination.
• Complete the Official Form: Use the Washington State Human Rights Commission's Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (no number).
• Submit Your Complaint: Send the completed form by mail, email, fax, or online submission. The WSHRC's address and email are listed on the form. File as soon as possible after the incident (typically within one year).
• Review and Investigation: The WSHRC will confirm receipt, may ask follow-up questions, investigate, and attempt mediation if both parties agree.
• Next Steps: If mediation fails or discrimination is found, the case may go to an administrative hearing before the Washington State Human Rights Commission's administrative law judge.

About the Housing Discrimination Complaint Form

• Form Name: Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (no number)
  How to Use: Complete if you believe you faced discrimination by a landlord or housing provider.
  Example: You were denied an apartment after the landlord learned you have a service animal for a disability—fill out and submit this form.
  Download: Official Housing Complaint Form from WSHRC

You can also submit through HUD using the HUD Form 903 Online if you believe your federal rights were violated.

What Happens After You File?

The WSHRC will review your complaint for eligibility. If it meets requirements, an investigator will be assigned. You may be contacted for more details or evidence. If the agency finds probable cause, it will try to resolve the case through settlement or a formal administrative hearing. Remedies may include being offered housing, financial compensation, or changes to housing provider practices.

Relevant Legislation and Tribunals

• Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)
• Washington Law Against Discrimination (RCW 49.60)
• Official Tribunal: Washington State Human Rights Commission (WSHRC)

These laws and the WSHRC ensure renters in Washington have strong protections against discrimination.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What evidence should I include with my housing discrimination complaint?
   Attach any relevant communications (emails, texts, letters), witness contact information, photos, or notes describing the incident. The more detail, the easier it is to investigate.
2. Is there a deadline to file a complaint in Washington?
   Yes, generally you must file within one year of the discriminatory action to ensure your complaint can be investigated.
3. What if I'm being evicted and believe it is discriminatory?
   If you suspect the eviction is based on a protected characteristic, file a complaint immediately and mention the eviction in your details. The WSHRC may be able to intervene or mediate.
4. Can I file both with WSHRC and HUD?
   Yes, complaints can be filed with both agencies, and they may coordinate their investigations.
5. Am I protected if I report housing discrimination?
   Yes, it's illegal for anyone to retaliate against you for asserting your fair housing rights.

Conclusion: What Renters Should Remember

• If you experience housing discrimination in Washington, file a complaint promptly using the official WSHRC form.
• You are protected by both state and federal laws—support is available throughout the process.
• Keep detailed records and contact WSHRC or HUD for resources and next steps.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington State Human Rights Commission – File a Complaint
• HUD – File a Federal Housing Discrimination Complaint
• WashingtonLawHelp.org – Housing Rights Information
• WA State Tenant Resources: Washington Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Resources

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1. Washington State Human Rights Commission official complaint process
2. Washington Law Against Discrimination (RCW 49.60)
3. Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)
4. Federal Fair Housing Act

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