What legal recourse is available to tenants who have been discriminated against in violation of Fair Housing Law?

In Florida, tenants who have been discriminated against in violation of Fair Housing Law have many legal options available for recourse. The primary source for legal recourse is the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Through HUD’s website, tenants can file a housing discrimination complaint or charge against a landlord or property manager. In addition, the state of Florida offers its own Fair Housing Act (FHA), which provides protections against all forms of housing discrimination including race, religion, sex, origin, etc. Tenants who have been discriminated against may also seek remedies under the Florida Civil Rights Act (FCRA). This act allows victims of housing discrimination to seek court orders, monetary damages, and other remedies. Tenants in Florida may also reach out to the Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) for assistance. The FCHR can provide mediation between the tenant and landlord, as well as referrals to lawyers and other legal services. In some cases, tenants may choose to pursue a private lawsuit against a landlord or property manager. In these cases, tenants should seek the advice of an experienced civil rights attorney who can advise them on their rights and legal options. Tenants may also consider filing a criminal complaint with their local law enforcement agency and the Office of the Attorney General. In these cases, the state may pursue prosecution of the landlord or property manager. No matter what legal recourse is chosen, tenants should make sure to keep detailed accounts of the incident in question, so that they can offer evidence that they sought legal recourse for their complaint. This will help them prove their case if they decide to pursue a private lawsuit or if a government agency decides to take action.

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What legal recourse is available to tenants who have been discriminated against in violation of Fair Housing Law?

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