Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation as a Renter in Colorado

If you are a renter with a disability in Colorado, you have the right to ask your landlord for changes to rules or physical modifications so you can use and enjoy your home equally. This guide explains how to request a reasonable accommodation, lists key steps, and connects you to the most current Colorado legal resources.

What Is a Reasonable Accommodation?

A reasonable accommodation is a change to policies, practices, or services, or a physical modification, that allows a person with a disability to have equal access to housing. Examples include allowing a service animal, providing a reserved parking space, or permitting the installation of a wheelchair ramp.

Your Rights Under Colorado Law

Renters in Colorado are protected by both federal and state laws: the Fair Housing Act and the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act. These laws make it unlawful for landlords to refuse reasonable accommodations for qualifying disabilities.^[1]

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation in Colorado

Requesting a reasonable accommodation usually starts with a written request to your landlord or property manager. You are not required to use a particular form, but putting your request in writing is recommended. In some cases, your landlord may ask for verification of your disability or confirmation that the accommodation is necessary.

Steps for Making a Request

• Put your request in writing. Clearly describe the change you need and indicate that it is because of your disability.
• Include any necessary medical documentation or a letter from a qualified professional, if your disability or the need for the accommodation is not obvious.
• Keep a copy of your request and any correspondence for your records.

Official Form: Colorado Division of Civil Rights Reasonable Accommodation Request Sample

Colorado does not require a specific government form, but the Colorado Civil Rights Division provides a Reasonable Accommodation Sample Letter. You can use this template to make your written request.

• Name: Reasonable Accommodation Sample Letter
• When to Use: Use when notifying your landlord of a needed change or modification due to a disability.
• How to Use: Fill in your details, describe the accommodation, and deliver it to your landlord with supporting documents if needed.
• Download the official Reasonable Accommodation Sample Letter (PDF)

What Happens After You Make a Request?

Your landlord must respond promptly. Landlords can deny a request only if it would cause an unreasonable financial or administrative burden, or if it would fundamentally change the nature of the rental property. If your request is denied, you have the right to file a complaint.

Filing a Complaint for Denial or Delay

• If you believe your request was unfairly denied or ignored, you can file a complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD).
• Use the Housing Discrimination Complaint Form.
• CCRD serves as Colorado’s official tribunal for investigating housing discrimination complaints, working in tandem with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for federal cases.

After you file a complaint, the CCRD will investigate and mediate the dispute.

Relevant Colorado Tenancy Legislation

Protections for renters with disabilities are established under:

• Federal Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. 3601 et seq.)
• Colorado Revised Statutes Section 24-34-502 (Anti-Discrimination—Housing)

Reviewing the original laws may help if you need to reference your rights in a discussion with your landlord.

FAQ

1. Can my landlord deny my reasonable accommodation request in Colorado?
   Your landlord may only deny your request if it would cause an undue financial or administrative burden or fundamentally alter the nature of the building. Denial must be based on legitimate reasons and not on your disability itself.
2. Do I have to disclose my exact medical condition?
   No. You only need to provide enough information to demonstrate that you have a disability and that the requested accommodation is necessary. Specific diagnoses are not usually required.
3. What if my landlord ignores my request?
   If your landlord does not respond or unfairly delays the process, you can file a complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division using their official complaint form.
4. Are emotional support animals covered under reasonable accommodations?
   Yes. In most cases, landlords must permit emotional support animals as a reasonable accommodation, even if there is a "no pets" policy.
5. Is there a fee to file a reasonable accommodation complaint?
   No. There is no fee for filing a housing discrimination complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Colorado Renters

• Requesting a reasonable accommodation should be done in writing using the Colorado sample letter.
• Your landlord must consider your request and cannot discriminate due to disability.
• If needed, you can file a complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division at no cost.

Having clear records and using official resources strengthens your case and ensures your rights are protected.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Civil Rights Division – Housing Section: Official tribunal for housing complaints and discrimination questions
• Reasonable Accommodation Sample Letter (PDF)
• Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (PDF)
• Disability Law Colorado: Advocacy and free legal help for people with disabilities
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Colorado Office

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1. See Colorado Revised Statutes Section 24-34-502 for anti-discrimination in housing laws.
2. Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD) is the official tribunal for residential tenancy discrimination cases in Colorado.
3. Find federal tenant protections in the Fair Housing Act.

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