The Commission expressly distinguishes an inquiry from a complaint. That distinction matters when describing a case, assessing procedural status and dealing with filing deadlines.
Sources checked September 29, 2026.
The Inquiry Form
An inquiry supplies information for Commission staff to assess. The person explains the alleged conduct, timing, protected characteristic, prohibited area and other information relevant to jurisdiction.
When a complaint exists
The Commission states that a complaint is complete when it is signed on the form prescribed by the Director after the intake criteria are demonstrated.
Possible intake results
An inquiry may lead to a Complaint Form, a request for clarification or documentation, or a decision that the inquiry cannot be accepted. Reassessment and appeal information is available for declined inquiries.
Do not overstate procedural status
An inquiry, accepted complaint, investigation and Board of Inquiry are different stages. None should be described as a finding of discrimination unless an authorized decision-maker has actually made that determination.
Official sources
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — making an inquiry
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — Inquiry Form and intake criteria
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — intake reassessments and appeals