Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation as a Renter in Alabama

If you’re a renter in Alabama living with a disability, you have important rights under both state and federal law to request reasonable accommodations from your landlord. Reasonable accommodations help ensure equal access and enjoyment of your rental home. Understanding the process can empower you to live comfortably and confidently in your home, while maintaining open, positive communication with your landlord.

Understanding Reasonable Accommodation

A "reasonable accommodation" is a change or modification to rules, policies, practices, or services that enables a person with a disability to have equal opportunity to use and enjoy a rental property. This right is protected by the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Alabama Fair Housing Law, which make it unlawful for landlords to refuse reasonable requests related to a tenant’s disability¹.

Examples of Reasonable Accommodations

• Allowing a service animal in a "no pets" apartment for a tenant with vision loss
• Assigning a parking space closer to the entrance for a person with mobility challenges
• Permitting rent payment schedules that accommodate a tenant’s disability-related income timing

Your Rights as an Alabama Renter

Alabama law adopts the federal protections of the FHA. Landlords must consider all reasonable accommodation requests unless they impose an “undue financial or administrative burden” or fundamentally alter the nature of the housing. The Alabama Attorney General’s Fair Housing Program accepts complaints and provides information to protect your rights.

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation

It’s best to make your request in writing, though a landlord cannot demand a specific form. Written requests help create a clear record. Here’s how to do it in Alabama:

• Describe the accommodation you need and connect it to your disability (you don’t need to disclose your diagnosis, only the connection).
• Submit the request to your landlord or property manager. Email is acceptable.
• Provide medical documentation if needed, but only related to your request.

Is There an Official Form in Alabama?

Currently, Alabama does not have a required statewide form specifically for reasonable accommodation requests. However, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Complaint Form (Form 903) is commonly used if you wish to file a discrimination complaint about denied or ignored requests.

• Form Name: HUD Discrimination Complaint Form (Form 903)
• When to Use: If your landlord refuses your reasonable accommodation request or retaliates against you, you may file this form with HUD.
• Official Source: HUD Online Complaint Portal

Most requests can be made by a simple letter or email, but if your request is denied or ignored, use the HUD complaint process to seek help.

What If Your Request Is Denied?

If your landlord refuses to provide a reasonable accommodation or ignores your request, you have the right to file a complaint. In Alabama, both the Alabama Attorney General’s Fair Housing Program and federal HUD office accept complaints.

• Complete and submit the HUD Form 903 or use the HUD online portal
• Your complaint will be reviewed, and HUD or local agencies may investigate and take further action if needed

Which Tribunal Handles Housing Disputes?

In Alabama, there is no specialized residential tenancies tribunal. Housing complaints related to discrimination are handled by the Alabama Attorney General's Fair Housing Program and HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (Region 4).

Alabama Tenancy Legislation

The main statute governing renting in Alabama is the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act². Anti-discrimination in housing is addressed by the Alabama Fair Housing Law and the federal Fair Housing Act.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord ask for proof of my disability?
   If your disability or the need for accommodation is not obvious, your landlord may ask for documentation showing you have a qualifying disability and the need for accommodation, but they cannot request detailed medical records.
2. What if my landlord ignores my request?
   If your landlord does not respond, send a follow-up written request and keep records. If you continue to be ignored, file a complaint with the Alabama Attorney General’s Fair Housing Program or HUD.
3. Are service animals considered a reasonable accommodation in Alabama?
   Yes. Under federal and Alabama law, landlords must allow service animals even if the property has a "no pets" policy, unless doing so would cause an undue hardship.
4. Does my landlord have to pay for structural modifications (like ramps)?
   Landlords usually must allow reasonable modifications but are not always required to pay for them. However, they can require you to restore the property at move-out.
5. Can I be evicted for asking for an accommodation?
   No. It’s illegal for a landlord to retaliate against you for exercising your rights or making a good-faith request for accommodation.

Conclusion / Key Takeaways

• Alabama renters have the right to request reasonable accommodations under state and federal law.
• Makes requests in writing and keep documentation.
• Use HUD Form 903 to file a complaint if your request is denied.
• Resources are available from the Alabama Attorney General’s Fair Housing Program and HUD.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Alabama Attorney General’s Fair Housing Program – Guidance and complaint intake
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Portal – Submit a federal discrimination complaint
• Alabama Attorney General’s Office Contact – Additional support and inquiry
• HUD Alabama State Office – Local HUD contact details

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1. Fair Housing Act
2. Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

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