COUNSELING & FILING A COMPLAINT

If you believe your Fair Housing rights have been violated, call Fair Housing of Marin at (415) 457-5025 as soon as possible. We will investigate your complaint and assist you in determining what action should be taken.

How to File a Complaint Alleging Housing Discrimination

You can file an administrative complaint within one year of the housing discrimination incident. You have two years to file a federal civil court action. Don't wait for the deadline. Call immediately.

What to Expect When You Call Us

When you call, depending on the circumstances:

• Housing Counselors will listen to the specifics of your situation and record basic information about you - your name, telephone number, address, etc.
• You may be asked for a timeline of what happened.
• FHOM may conduct an investigation.
• You may hire a private attorney and file an action in federal court within two years of the discriminatory incident.
• Fair Housing will work to resolve the matter by working with you directly or by forwarding the case to a lawyer or to HUD.
• Fair Housing will not do anything without getting your consent.

Filing a Complaint Online

You may file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) within one year of the discriminatory incident. To file a complaint online with HUD click here.

You may file a complaint with the State of California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) within one year of the discriminatory incident. To file a complaint with DFEH click here

If Your Complaint is Successful

If you are able to prove that you have been a victim of discrimination you may be entitled to receive compensation for actual damages, including humiliation, pain and suffering, and other relief.

In federal court you may also receive punitive damages. If you are successful, the person who discriminated against you must pay your attorney's fees.