Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation in DC Rentals

Renters with disabilities in the District of Columbia have important rights under local and federal law. If you or someone in your household needs a change to a housing rule, policy, or physical arrangement due to a disability, you may ask your landlord for a 'reasonable accommodation.' This is supported by both the federal Fair Housing Act and District of Columbia law. Understanding how to make this request—and what steps to take if you face challenges—can help you maintain your independence and well-being while renting in DC.

What Is a Reasonable Accommodation?

A reasonable accommodation is a change or exception to a housing policy, rule, or structure that allows a person with a disability the same opportunity to use and enjoy their rental home as other tenants. Examples include:

• Allowing a service animal in a 'no pets' building
• Reserving a parking spot near the entrance for a mobility-impaired tenant
• Permitting someone to mail in rent payments instead of dropping them off in person

Landlords in DC are legally required to consider reasonable accommodation requests unless doing so would impose an undue financial or administrative burden, or fundamentally alter the nature of their housing services.^[1]

Your Rights Under District of Columbia Law

The District of Columbia Human Rights Act and the federal Fair Housing Act prohibit housing discrimination against people with disabilities in DC.^[2],[3]

• You do not need to disclose your specific disability, only confirm that it exists.
• The landlord may request documentation (from a doctor or other professional) that verifies your need for the accommodation.
• Landlords must respond promptly to your request.

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation

While you may make your request verbally or in writing, sending a written request is strongly recommended. This creates a record in case of disagreements later. Follow these steps to request a reasonable accommodation in DC:

• Identify the accommodation needed, and how it relates to your disability.
• Provide a clear explanation of why you need the change.
• Include supporting documentation, if possible (for example, a brief letter from a medical provider).
• Send your request to your landlord or property manager, and keep a copy for yourself.

DC does not require a specific form, but the District of Columbia Reasonable Accommodation/Modification Request form (Fair Housing Form, March 2021) is available to help renters make requests in a clear and documented manner.

Example: Using the DC Reasonable Accommodation Form

If you use a wheelchair and need a ramp installed at the building entrance, you can fill out the official DC Fair Housing Reasonable Accommodation/Modification Request Form. In Section 2, you would describe your disability-related need, and in Section 3, specify the ramp installation as your requested accommodation. Submit the form directly to your landlord or management, and keep a dated copy. Download the DC Reasonable Accommodation Request Form here.

What Happens After You Submit Your Request?

Your landlord is required to consider your request promptly. They may:

• Approve the accommodation
• Request additional documentation (but not full medical records)
• Deny the request, but only if there is a valid legal reason (like undue hardship)

If your request is denied, you must receive a written explanation for the denial.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

Both the DC Office of Human Rights (OHR) and HUD investigate fair housing discrimination. You may file a complaint online, by mail, or in person. OHR is the official tribunal handling housing discrimination matters in the District of Columbia.

• Your complaint should include details of the accommodation you requested, the landlord’s response, and copies of any correspondence.
• OHR may contact you for further information or to arrange a mediation with the landlord.

For step-by-step guidance, see OHR’s complaint process page.

Key Documents and Forms for DC Renters

• DC Reasonable Accommodation/Modification Request Form (March 2021)
  When to use: To formally request a change or modification due to a disability.
  Official Download Link
• OHR Complaint Form
  When to use: If you believe your rights were violated under DC’s Human Rights Act or federal fair housing laws.
  Official OHR Complaint Info

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I have to use a specific form to request an accommodation?
   No, you are not required to use a particular form. However, written requests are best, and DC’s Reasonable Accommodation/Modification Request Form can help provide clear documentation.
2. Can my landlord deny my accommodation request?
   A landlord can only deny a request if it would create an undue financial/administrative burden or fundamentally alter their housing services. They must provide you with a written reason for the denial.
3. What documentation can my landlord ask for?
   They may ask for documentation confirming that you have a qualifying disability and need the accommodation, but cannot ask for your full medical records or details about your diagnosis.
4. If my request is approved, who pays for the modification?
   It depends: structural modifications needed for accessibility may be at the renter’s expense, but policy changes (like allowing a service animal) must be provided at no cost to the tenant.
5. Can I file a complaint if my request is ignored?
   Yes. If a landlord does not respond to your request within a reasonable time, you can file a complaint with OHR or HUD. See resources below for help.

Summary and Key Takeaways

• DC law protects your right to request reasonable accommodations if you have a disability.
• Put your request in writing and use available forms to document your need.
• If your request is denied or ignored, you have options to file a complaint with official agencies.

Always keep copies of your communications and seek assistance if you encounter difficulties during this process.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• DC Office of Human Rights (OHR) – Housing discrimination complaints, accommodations guidance, and mediation. Call (202) 727-4559 or file online.
• DC Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA) – Support, legal information, and tenant education. Call (202) 719-6560.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Federal fair housing complaint process.
• District of Columbia Human Rights Act – Full text of anti-discrimination law.

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1. District of Columbia Human Rights Act, Title 2, Chapter 14
2. DC Office of Human Rights – Fair Housing
3. HUD – Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity

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