Is a landlord required to respond to complaints about violations of Fair Housing Law?

Yes, a landlord in South Dakota is required to respond to complaints about violations of Fair Housing Law. Under the law, landlords are obligated to comply with the federal Fair Housing Act, which protects tenants from discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. This includes providing equal access to housing, including rental housing, and not discriminating against tenants on these protected bases. The South Dakota Department of Human Rights (SDDHR) is responsible for enforcing the federal Fair Housing Act within the state. Landlords who are found to be in violation of the law may face significant penalties, including the requirement to pay damages to the tenant, the cost of attorneys’ fees, or even criminal charges. If a tenant files a complaint alleging a violation of Fair Housing Law, the landlord is required to respond to the complaint. They must provide the SDDHR with proof that they are not in violation of the law or with any other documentation that would support their claim. If the landlord fails to respond to a complaint, they may be subject to fines or other penalties. Tenants should keep in mind that the landlord has a legal obligation to respond to a complaint, but that the landlord is not obligated to resolve the complaint. If a tenant feels that they have been discriminated against, they should contact the SDDHR for assistance.

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Is a landlord required to respond to complaints about violations of Fair Housing Law?

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