What Should a Person Who Has Been Discriminated Against in Housing Do?
by: Iowa Legal Aid
February 2003
In general, a victim of housing discrimination can do any or all of the following things. Keep in mind that the Iowa law and federal law are very similar, but it is possible that some actions might violate one but not the other. The Iowa Civil Rights Commission can give more information about what each law covers.
- A victim of discrimination can file a complaint with the Iowa Civil Rights Commission (ICRC). The time limit for filing a complaint with the ICRC is 180 days from the time the discrimination happened.
You can reach the ICRC toll-free at 1-800-457-4416, or locally at (515) 242-6093. You can write to the Iowa Civil Rights Commission at 211 East Maple Street, Second Floor, Des Moines, IA 50309.
- A victim of discrimination can file a complaint with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The time limit for filing a complaint with HUD is one year from the time the discrimination happened.
You can reach HUD toll-free at NATIONAL HUD DISCRIMINATION HOTLINE 1-800-927-9277 or TYY 1-800-927-9275. The address for HUD is: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Region VII Office of Fair Housing, Gateway Tower II, 400 State Avenue, Kansas City, Kansas 66101-2406.
- A victim of discrimination can file a lawsuit without going to either the ICRC or HUD first. A lawsuit has to be filed within two years of the time the discrimination happened.
A lawyer can explain what the best remedy is in a particular situation.
Since you only have a limited time to file a complaint, it is important to contact an attorney, Fair Housing Office, Iowa Civil Rights Commission, or U.S. Department of HUD as soon as you believe you have been discriminated against.
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