Do I need to tell my landlord about my specific disability when requesting an accommodation?

No. You only need to provide enough information for your landlord to understand the need for the accommodation. Detailed medical disclosure is not required.

Who pays for reasonable modifications in Georgia rental housing?

In most private rentals, tenants pay for modifications. In federally funded housing, landlords may be responsible for the cost. Always verify funding or subsidy details.

Can my landlord deny my request for an accommodation?

Landlords can only deny if the request is unreasonable, and must explain their reasons in writing. Most legitimate accommodations cannot be unreasonably denied.

How long does a landlord have to respond to an accommodation request?

Landlords should respond promptly to a request—usually within 10-14 days is considered reasonable.

Where can I file a complaint if I believe I was discriminated against?

You can file with HUD using Form 903 or through the Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity, which both handle housing discrimination complaints.

Georgia Renters: ADA and FHA Accessibility Rights Explained

Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Georgia published: June 21, 2025

If you're renting a home or apartment in Georgia and have questions about accessibility standards, you're not alone. Many renters want to know how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Fair Housing Act (FHA) protect their rights locally. In this article, we explain the key differences between ADA and FHA standards for rental housing, what Georgia renters can expect, and how to take action if you need disability accommodations.

Understanding ADA and FHA Accessibility Standards in Georgia

Both the ADA and FHA are federal laws designed to protect people with disabilities, but they apply differently depending on the type of rental housing and situation:

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Primarily applies to public areas and commercial spaces, such as rental office entrances or community clubhouses.
Fair Housing Act (FHA): Covers almost all private and public rental housing, ensuring renters can receive reasonable accommodations in their homes.

Georgia renters are covered by these federal standards in addition to state and local protections. It's important to know your rights under both laws if you have a disability and need a modification or accommodation in your rental home.

What Is a "Reasonable Accommodation"?

A reasonable accommodation is a change to rules, policies, or practices so a person with a disability has equal opportunity to use and enjoy their home. For example, allowing a service animal in a "no pets" building is a reasonable accommodation. Under the FHA, your landlord must consider and cannot unreasonably deny requests for accommodations that do not impose undue financial or administrative burdens.

What Is a "Reasonable Modification"?

Reasonable modifications involve changes to the physical structure of the property to accommodate a tenant's disability (such as adding grab bars in the bathroom). In most cases, renters pay for modifications, but certain federally funded housing may require landlords to pay. Be sure to review HUD's guide on reasonable accommodations and modifications.

When Does the ADA Apply to Georgia Rentals?

The ADA applies to spaces open to the public within your apartment community, such as leasing offices, lobbies, pools, and fitness centers. These areas must meet accessibility standards—that means ramps, accessible doorways, and parking spaces. However, ADA does not apply to the interiors of individual apartments and most privately-owned homes.

When Does the FHA Apply?

The Fair Housing Act applies to almost all rental housing, including most apartments and single-family rentals in Georgia. It prohibits housing discrimination based on disability and mandates reasonable accommodations and modifications.

How Can a Georgia Renter Request a Disability Accommodation?

If you need an accommodation, it's best to put your request in writing. Describe your disability (you do not need to disclose details), the accommodation needed, and how it will help you use and enjoy your home.

Georgia does not have a state-specific form for accommodation requests, but you can use HUD's sample letter. Review the official HUD Reasonable Accommodation Request Sample Letter (PDF).

Tip: Check your lease and speak with your landlord in writing to keep a record of your accommodation request. Save copies of all correspondence.

What If My Request Is Denied?

If a landlord denies your request or does not respond, you can file a fair housing complaint:

Use the HUD Form 903 (Housing Discrimination Complaint Form), available online and in paper format.
When and How: File this form if you believe you have been discriminated against because of your disability when requesting an accommodation or modification. You can file online, by mail, or by phone using HUD’s official channels.
Georgia housing discrimination complaints are handled by the Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity (GCEO) as well as HUD.

Key Georgia Laws and Government Resources

Fair Housing Act Overview (HUD)
ADA Regulations: Public Areas
Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity (GCEO): Handles fair housing complaints in Georgia.
The Georgia Landlord-Tenant Act governs rental relationships. See Georgia Landlord-Tenant Rights for an overview.

These are the main agencies and laws protecting your rights as a renter with disabilities in Georgia.

FAQ: Georgia Renters and Accessibility Standards

Do I need to tell my landlord about my specific disability when requesting an accommodation?
No. You only need to provide enough information for your landlord to understand the need for the accommodation. Detailed medical disclosure is not required.
Who pays for reasonable modifications in Georgia rental housing?
In most private rentals, tenants pay for modifications. However, landlords may be responsible in federally funded housing. Always check your lease and the property's funding status.
Can my landlord deny my request for an accommodation?
Landlords can only deny if the request is unreasonable (creates undue hardship, jeopardizes others, or is structurally impossible). They must explain their reasons in writing if they deny a request.
How long does a landlord have to respond to an accommodation request?
While the law does not specify a timeline, landlords should respond promptly—usually within 10-14 days is considered reasonable. Delays may violate the FHA.
Where can I file a complaint if I believe I was discriminated against?
You can file with HUD or with the Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity. Both are authorized to investigate fair housing complaints.

Key Takeaways for Georgia Renters

The ADA applies to public/common areas, while the FHA covers private rental units and accommodation requests.
Put accommodation or modification requests in writing and save all correspondence.
If denied, use official HUD or GCEO forms to file a complaint and protect your rights.

Knowing these federal and state standards can help ensure your home meets your accessibility needs as a Georgia renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint (HUD)
Georgia Landlord-Tenant Rights
Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity (GCEO) — for assistance with state housing discrimination complaints
U.S. Department of Justice ADA Information