How to Ask for a Change to Your Rental Home Because of a Disability

If you have a disability, you have the right to ask your landlord for changes that help you live safely and comfortably in your home. These changes are called reasonable accommodations or reasonable modifications. Federal and Colorado fair housing laws protect these rights, though there are some exceptions. 

This guide explains:

• What reasonable accommodations and modifications are 
• How to request them 
• What proof you may need 
• What to do if your landlord refuses

It also includes a sample request letter and information about where to get help.

What is a reasonable accommodation?

A reasonable accommodation is a change to a rule, policy, or service to meet a disability-related need.

Examples:

• Allowing a service animal in a “no pets” building.
• Giving documents in Braille or audio format.
• Letting a caregiver move in to provide support.
• Reserving a parking spot for someone with mobility issues.

What is a reasonable modification?

A reasonable modification is a physical change to the home or building.

Examples:

• Installing grab bars in the bathroom.
• Building a wheelchair ramp.
• Widening a doorway.
• Adding a peephole for a tenant with a hearing disability.

What makes a request “reasonable”?

A request is reasonable if:

• It relates directly to the tenant’s disability.
• It is not too costly or difficult for the landlord.
• It does not fundamentally change the landlord’s business.

If a request is too hard to grant, the landlord must try to talk to you about other options. In rare cases, ending the lease early may be an option—but only as a last resort.

Do I qualify for an accommodation or modification?

You can ask for a reasonable accommodation or modification if you meet these 4 criteria:

1. My disability makes it hard to get or stay in housing.
2. The change I need will help me get or keep housing.
3. I can still follow my lease.
4. I can live safely without harming others.

How do I ask?

Send your landlord a written request and keep a copy. Attach proof if needed (medical records or notes from a doctor or social worker).

Do I need a doctor’s note?

Yes, if your disability is not obvious. A professional may also need to explain how the change helps.

What does the landlord do? 

Your landlord has 2 options:

1. Agree to your request.

   OR

2. Say no, but explain the reason why.

What if my landlord refuses to make the changes?

If you qualify, make a request, and provide proof, but your landlord still refuses, it may be housing discrimination.
You can:

• File a complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division: 303-894-2997.
• File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Fair Housing: 1-800-877-7353.
• Talk to a lawyer about legal action.

What counts as discrimination?

It is illegal for a landlord or property manager to do any of the following things based on a tenant’s disability:

• Refuse to rent or sell.
• Give false information about housing.
• Impose different rules or terms.
• Post discriminatory ads.
• Harass or retaliate against tenants.
• Deny reasonable accommodations or reasonable modifications.

What housing is covered?

• Homes, apartments, mobile homes, and condos.
• Boarding houses, public housing, hotels and motels, shelters, and sober housing.

Are there any exceptions? 

Some religious or private club housing, and rooms rented in an owner’s home, may not be protected. Check with an attorney if you’re not sure if your housing is protected under discrimination law.

Tips for success

• Keep copies of all requests and landlord responses.
• Ask as early as possible, ideally before signing a lease.
• Put requests in writing. Don’t just ask verbally.
• Be clear and specific about what you need.
• Stay calm and professional in all communications.

Sample request letter for reasonable accommodation

Need more help?

If you are low-income, a senior, or a veteran, you may qualify for free legal help from Colorado Legal Services (CLS). To apply or ask if you might qualify, go to the CLS website and find the office that serves your area. If you call or visit, CLS can help you in your native language.

You can get help from the courts. Every judicial district has staff called “Sherlocks” to help people with their legal questions. To find the Sherlock in your county, visit the Judicial Department’s Sherlock webpage.