Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation as a Renter in Illinois

If you are a renter in Illinois living with a disability, you have the right to request reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access to your home. Illinois law protects tenants from discrimination based on disability under both state and federal law. Knowing how to ask for an accommodation can help you maintain safe and comfortable housing.

Understanding Reasonable Accommodation

A reasonable accommodation is a change or exception to a landlord's rules, policies, or practices that allows a person with a disability to fully use and enjoy their rental housing. Examples include allowing a service animal despite a "no pets" rule, installing grab bars in the bathroom, or providing a reserved parking space near the entrance.

Legal Protections for Renters with Disabilities in Illinois

• Federal Fair Housing Act (view on justice.gov) prohibits discrimination based on disability.
• Illinois Human Rights Act (see full Illinois Human Rights Act) gives renters additional protections.
• The Illinois Residential Tenants’ Rights Law: Review more about general tenant-landlord obligations under the Illinois Security Deposit Return Act and local ordinances, where applicable.^[1]

If you believe you need an accommodation because of a disability, you have the right to ask your landlord, property manager, or housing provider.

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation

You do not need to use special language or a specific form, but making your request in writing is recommended. Written requests provide a record of your communication and help avoid misunderstandings.

Illinois Reasonable Accommodation Forms and Guidance

• Reasonable Accommodation Request Form (IDHR template)
  Not required, but recommended. The Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR) Sample Request Form can help organize your accommodation request.
• IDHR Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
  If your request is denied or ignored, file a complaint using the Official IDHR Fair Housing Complaint Form (no specific number). This form starts the process for investigating housing discrimination, including reasonable accommodation denials. For example, if your landlord refuses to permit a service animal and you believe this is discriminatory, complete this form and submit it to IDHR.^[2]

Step-by-Step Process

• Decide what accommodation you need (e.g., a modification to your unit, a change to rules).
• Prepare to explain how the request relates to your disability. Medical evidence is not always required, but a letter from a healthcare provider can help (you do not need to share your diagnosis).
• Submit a written request to your landlord. Clearly state what you are requesting and why. Attach relevant documentation if possible.
• Keep copies of all communication and any documents you provide.
• Your landlord must respond promptly. They may ask for more information but cannot require excessive medical details.
• If your request is denied or ignored, file a discrimination complaint with the Illinois Department of Human Rights or U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Tip: Always keep a dated copy of your written accommodation request and any response from your landlord, as this may be important if a dispute arises.

Which Tribunal Handles Housing Disputes?

Housing discrimination complaints in Illinois are handled by the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR). You can submit housing-related complaints directly to them if your reasonable accommodation request is denied or you believe you are being discriminated against.

If You Need to File a Complaint

• Complete the Fair Housing Complaint Form (see above).
• Submit it online, by mail, or in person to any IDHR office. More details on how to submit are found on the IDHR Contact Us page.
• Alternatively, you may file a federal complaint through the HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process.

FAQ About Accommodation Requests in Illinois

1. Do I have to use a specific form to request a reasonable accommodation in Illinois?
   No. While Illinois provides a sample request form, any written request describing your need is acceptable.
2. Can my landlord ask for medical documentation?
   Landlords may ask for reasonable verification that you have a disability and need the accommodation, but they cannot demand extensive medical records or require you to disclose your diagnosis.
3. What if my landlord ignores or denies my request?
   You can file a housing discrimination complaint with the Illinois Department of Human Rights or HUD. Use the official IDHR Complaint Form for Illinois cases.
4. Are there any costs for requesting an accommodation?
   Landlords must generally cover costs for reasonable policy changes, but tenants may need to pay for certain physical modifications. Always clarify before you act.
5. How long does a landlord have to respond?
   The law requires landlords to respond to reasonable accommodation requests promptly, usually within a few days to a few weeks.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR): Handles discrimination and accommodation issues.
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process: File a federal complaint online or by phone.
• Cook County Legal Aid for Housing: Free legal help for renters in Cook County.
• Illinois Legal Aid Online: Plain-language guides and legal help statewide.

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1. To learn more about your rights, review the Illinois Human Rights Act and the Fair Housing Act.
2. IDHR Housing Discrimination Form: Official Download

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