What Is Housing Discrimination?
Individuals have the right to access housing without discrimination. Housing discrimination occurs when a person is treated differently because of a protected class in renting, buying, or financing a home, or in other housing-related activities.
Under federal and Indiana civil rights laws, housing providers may not discriminate based on protected characteristics when offering housing, setting terms, or providing services. These protections help ensure equal access to housing opportunities.
This may occur in many situations, including:
- Renting or leasing a home
- Buying or selling property
- Setting rental terms or conditions
- Providing housing services or maintenance
- Advertising housing
Housing decisions should be based on legitimate factors such as financial qualifications, not protected characteristics.
If you believe you experienced housing discrimination, there are time limits for filing a complaint. In most cases, a complaint must be filed within 180 days of the alleged discriminatory act.
Filing as soon as possible can help ensure that your complaint can be reviewed.
If You Believe You Experienced Housing Discrimination
If you believe you were treated unfairly in housing because of a protected class, you may be able to file a discrimination complaint.
The Indiana Civil Rights Commission investigates complaints involving discrimination in housing, employment, education, public accommodations, and credit.
To learn more about filing a complaint, visit the How to File a Discrimination Complaint page.