Idaho Rental Accessibility Modifications: Who Pays?

Renters with disabilities in Idaho have important rights when it comes to making their homes accessible. If you or a loved one needs changes—like grab bars, ramps, or lowered counters—in your rental unit, you might wonder: who pays for accessibility modifications in Idaho, and what are the proper steps to make a request? This guide explains Idaho’s laws, key forms, and what tenants and landlords are each responsible for.

Understanding Disability Accommodation Rights in Idaho

The federal Fair Housing Act and the Idaho Human Rights Commission both protect the rights of people with disabilities to access housing. Landlords are required to consider reasonable modifications if needed for a renter’s disability.

Who Pays for Accessibility Modifications?

In most rental situations in Idaho, the tenant is responsible for paying for the cost of reasonable accessibility modifications to their unit. However, there are exceptions and key protections to know:

• Tenants pay for modifications in most private rentals (e.g., installing ramps, automatic door openers).
• Landlords must allow modifications if they are reasonable and will not pose an undue financial or administrative burden.
• In federally funded housing (e.g., Section 8), the landlord may need to cover the cost in some cases.¹
• Landlords can require modifications to be professionally performed and may ask tenants to restore some changes when moving out (an agreement about restoration costs can be required).

Discussing the need for modifications early and in writing can help avoid misunderstandings.

How to Request a Modification: Forms and Steps

To request a disability-related modification, it’s best to use a written form or letter. While Idaho does not offer a specific state-issued form, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers templates and guidance.

• Sample Reasonable Accommodation/Modification Request Form
  • When to Use: When you need to formally request a change or modification to make your rental accessible due to a disability.
  • How to Use: Fill out the form with a description of the needed modification, then provide it to your landlord. Be specific and include medical documentation if required (your landlord may not ask for a diagnosis, only proof of need).
  • Download HUD Reasonable Modification Guidance (PDF)

Landlords must respond promptly. If denied, the landlord should provide a written explanation.

Key Protections Under the Law

• Access: Landlords cannot deny housing for requesting a modification.
• Restoration Agreements: A landlord can require that a tenant restore the unit to its original condition (with reasonable wear and tear excepted) but only for modifications that do not benefit future tenants.
• Discrimination Complaints: If you feel a request is unfairly denied, you can file a complaint.

If your request is refused or ignored, you may contact the Idaho Human Rights Commission or HUD’s Office of Fair Housing for help.

Tip: Always get agreements about modifications and restoration in writing to prevent disputes.

Applicable Tenancy Laws and Where to Turn for Assistance

Idaho rentals follow the Idaho Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for most disputes.² However, modifications and discrimination claims are usually handled by the Idaho Human Rights Commission (IHRC).

Idaho Tribunal for Tenancy Issues

The Idaho Human Rights Commission is the main agency handling housing discrimination and accessibility matters.

1. Can my landlord deny a modification request? Landlords can only deny requests if the modification is not reasonable, would cause undue financial hardship, or if the tenant refuses reasonable conditions (like agreeing to restore the unit).
2. Do I need to use a specific form to request a modification? No specific Idaho form exists, but a written request is strongly recommended. You may use sample HUD forms or write your own letter.
3. Who pays to restore the unit at move-out? The tenant is responsible for reasonable restoration costs if agreed to in writing (excluding normal wear and tear).
4. Is there financial help for accessibility modifications? Some local agencies and nonprofit programs may offer assistance; tenants may also request a "reasonable accommodation" for payment plans or to find resources.
5. What if my landlord ignores my request or retaliates? File a complaint with the Idaho Human Rights Commission or HUD if you experience retaliation or an unreasonable denial.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Idaho Human Rights Commission – File a Housing Complaint
• HUD: How to File a Fair Housing Complaint
• HousingIdaho.com – Idaho housing listings and tenant information
• Idaho Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

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1. See HUD’s Reasonable Accommodations and Modifications Guidance for federal housing programs.
2. Read the Idaho Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for state landlord-tenant laws.

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