Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation as a Renter in Hawaii

Living with a disability should never prevent you from enjoying a safe and comfortable rental home in Hawaii. If you need adjustments to your housing due to a disability, you have important rights under both federal and Hawaii law. Understanding how to request a reasonable accommodation can help you get the support you need while staying within your legal protections as a renter in Hawaii.

Your Rights to Reasonable Accommodation in Hawaii

Both the federal Fair Housing Act and Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 515 protect people with disabilities from housing discrimination. A reasonable accommodation is a change to rules, procedures, or the physical environment that allows a renter with a disability to use and enjoy their home equally.

• Examples: Allowing a service animal in a no-pets building, granting a reserved parking space close to your unit, or installing grab bars in a bathroom.
• Landlords must consider these requests but are not required to approve accommodations that are unreasonable or would cause extreme hardship.

When and How to Make a Reasonable Accommodation Request

It's best to make your request in writing as soon as you realize an accommodation is necessary. You can make your request at any time during your tenancy.

What to Include in Your Request

• Your name and address
• A clear explanation of your disability if you feel comfortable (you do not need to disclose specifics—just that you have a disability covered by law)
• The exact accommodation you are requesting
• How the accommodation will help you use and enjoy your home
• Optional: A letter from a healthcare provider supporting your need (sometimes required if the disability is not obvious)

This sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Form from the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission can be adapted for your use.

Official Forms for Hawaii Renters

• Reasonable Accommodation Request Form: Official sample (no form number). Use this template when you need your landlord to consider a change to rules or facilities due to a disability. For example, if you need a no-pet building to accept your service animal, fill out and submit this form to your landlord. Download the sample form here.
• Hawaii Civil Rights Commission Intake Questionnaire (Housing): If your request is denied and you believe your legal rights were violated, use this form to start a discrimination complaint with the state. Access the intake questionnaire here.

Always keep a copy of your request for your records and note the date you submit it.

What Happens After You Submit a Request?

Your landlord should respond promptly—usually within a reasonable timeframe (often 7–10 business days). They may approve, deny, or request more information. If more documentation is requested, you may provide a simple letter from a medical provider confirming your need for the accommodation.

What If Your Accommodation Is Denied?

• Ask your landlord in writing for a clear reason for the denial.
• Try to negotiate or suggest an alternative accommodation.
• If the denial still stands and you believe it is not justified, submit the HCRC Housing Intake Questionnaire as soon as possible.
• The Hawaii Civil Rights Commission will investigate whether the landlord followed state and federal law.

It's important to act quickly, as complaints must usually be filed within 180 days of the alleged discrimination.

Legislation and Where to Go for Help

Your rights are outlined under the Hawaii Fair Housing Law (HRS §515) and the federal Fair Housing Act. Disputes and discrimination complaints are handled by the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is considered a reasonable accommodation in Hawaii?
   Any change to policies, practices, or the built environment that helps a renter with a disability use and enjoy their home. Common examples include allowing service animals, granting designated parking, or providing accessible routes.
2. Can my landlord ask for proof of my disability?
   Yes, but only if your disability or need for the accommodation is not obvious. Acceptable proof can be a letter from your healthcare provider confirming the need (without requiring detailed medical records).
3. What if my landlord denies my request?
   You can ask for written reasons, try to negotiate, or file a complaint with the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission if you believe your rights were violated.
4. Is there a cost to requesting a reasonable accommodation?
   No, landlords cannot charge extra fees for processing or granting a reasonable accommodation required by law.
5. Are there deadlines for filing a complaint?
   Yes, most housing discrimination complaints must be filed within 180 days of the incident with the HCRC.

Key Takeaways for Hawaii Renters

• You have the right to request reasonable disability accommodations under Hawaii and federal law.
• Requests should be made in writing and can use the official state sample form.
• If your landlord denies your request, you are protected from retaliation and can file a complaint with the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Hawaii Civil Rights Commission (HCRC) — File fair housing complaints, get legal information, and request mediation
• HCRC Housing Discrimination Complaint Questionnaire — Start your complaint if your rights are violated
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process — Federal guidance and submission portal
• Hawaii Disability Services Division — State ADA resources and support

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1. Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 515 — Fair Housing Law
2. Federal Fair Housing Act
3. Hawaii Civil Rights Commission (HCRC)

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