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File a Fair Housing Complaint

If you believe your fair housing rights have been violated, you have the right to file a complaint. There are several pathways available to you, at no cost.

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Act promptly. Fair housing complaints are subject to time limits. Under fair housing law, administrative complaints must generally be filed within one year of the alleged discriminatory act, and lawsuits must be filed within two years. The tolling period for filing a lawsuit is paused during an administrative investigation by HUD or CRD. Contact a fair housing provider or enforcement agency as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Not sure if what happened to you is discrimination? That's okay. Contact a SDRAFFH member organization or reach out to us directly at info@sandiegofairhousing.org. Fair housing counselors can help you understand your situation and your rights, for free.

File with a Fair Housing Organization

SDRAFFH member organizations provide free fair housing counseling and can assist you in understanding and exercising your rights. They may be able to help you prepare and file a complaint.
Contact SDRAFFH to be connected with the appropriate member organization for your area and situation.
Contact a Fair Housing Organization
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File Directly with an Enforcement Agency

You may also file a complaint directly with a government enforcement agency. These agencies investigate fair housing complaints and can take legal action if violations are found.

HUD — U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development

Federal fair housing complaints

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California Civil Rights Department (CRD)

State-level housing discrimination

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CA Dept. of Real Estate (DRE)

Real estate license violations

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DFPI — CA Dept. of Financial Protection

Lending and mortgage discrimination

Learn More →

Before You File

What to Gather Before Filing

The more documentation you have, the stronger your complaint. Gather as much of the following information as possible before contacting a provider or filing a complaint.

Dates, times, and locations of the incidents

Any written communications (emails, texts, letters)

Lease agreements or loan documents

Photos or recordings (if applicable and legally obtained)

Names and contact information of those involved

Rental listings, ads, or property listings

Names of witnesses who observed the discrimination

Records of prior complaints or communications with the landlord

Think Your Housing Rights Were Violated?

SDRAFFH member organizations are here to help. Connect with a fair housing provider in your area to learn about your options.
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The Process

What Happens After You File

Intake & Review

Your complaint is reviewed by a fair housing or enforcement agency to determine if it falls within their jurisdiction and if there is sufficient information to proceed.

Investigation

If accepted, an investigation is conducted. This may include interviews, document review, testing, or other fact-finding activities.

Conciliation or Determination

Many complaints are resolved through conciliation (a voluntary agreement between the parties). If conciliation fails, the agency may issue a formal determination of cause or no cause.

Resolution

Resolution: If a violation is found, remedies may include compensatory damages, injunctive relief, civil penalties, and changes in policies or practices by the respondent. If no violation is found, the agency administratively closes the complaint, but you may still file a lawsuit on your own.