What is the time frame for filing a complaint under the Fair Housing Act?

The timeframe for filing a complaint under the Fair Housing Act is one year from the date of the alleged violation. This deadline ensures that claims are addressed in a timely manner while also allowing for the collection of evidence and witness testimony to support the complaint. The one-year period is critical because it balances the need for individuals to seek recourse for housing discrimination against the need to maintain a robust and manageable legal process.

This one-year limit applies specifically to filing a complaint with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). If a complaint is not filed within this timeframe, an individual loses the right to pursue their claim under federal law, potentially leading to a significant disadvantage in seeking resolution for discrimination issues.