Fair Housing Enforcement

Enforcement of fair housing laws is governed by a number of different agencies, depending upon the location of the housing. Tenants have options of where to file a fair housing complaint based on where they live. Tenants in jurisdictions served by multiple fair housing agencies can file with the closest agency, and may choose to file with HUD as well. Applicants and tenants have one year from the date of the incident of discrimination to file a fair housing complaint against the landlord or property management company.

Once a discrimination complaint has been filed, the general process of investigation follows the path outlined below. Specific steps and time frames will vary.

Tenants Union Tenant Counselors are not attorneys, and this information should not be considered legal advice. Please read our full Tenant Union Disclaimer.

Join the action alert list

Stay updated on issues and actions affecting Washington State tenants.