If something happened after you complained

Retaliation claims, where they exist, are usually about sequence. A complaint or a protected action came first. A negative housing action came after. Courts and agencies look at dates, not at how the situation felt.

• The original complaint — written if possible — with the date and how it was delivered.
• Proof the landlord received it, if you have it: email, certified mail, a portal screenshot, a photo of a posted note.
• The later notice, increase, lockout threat, or other action, with its date.
• A one-page timeline connecting those dates.
• Rent payment history showing you were current, if that is true.

States differ on which tenant actions are protected, how long a presumption lasts after a complaint, and what remedies exist. Some have no separate retaliation statute and handle the issue through other doctrines. That is why this page does not list a window or a list of protected acts as if they were national.