Can my landlord charge me more rent for an accessible parking space?

No, Indiana landlords cannot charge additional rent or fees for providing reasonable accommodations such as accessible parking.

What if my landlord ignores my request for a parking accommodation?

You may file a complaint with the Indiana Civil Rights Commission or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development if your request is ignored.

Is my landlord required to create a new parking spot if none are available?

Landlords must try to accommodate within reason but aren't required to make major structural changes if not feasible.

How do I prove I need a parking accommodation?

Your landlord may request verification from a medical provider that you require the accommodation, but not details about your diagnosis.

Can I request multiple accommodations like parking and unit modifications?

Yes, tenants can request multiple reasonable accommodations as needed. Each request should be considered separately.

Indiana Renters’ Rights: Disability Parking Accommodations Explained

Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Indiana published: June 21, 2025

Accessible parking is a crucial component of ensuring fair housing for tenants with disabilities in Indiana. If you or someone in your household needs a designated accessible parking space, understanding your rights and the proper procedures is key to creating a comfortable living environment. This guide covers legal protections, how to request accommodations, forms, and what to expect from Indiana landlords.

Your Right to Accessible Parking in Indiana

Tenants with disabilities are legally entitled to reasonable accommodations, including accessible parking, under federal and state law. Landlords must work with tenants to provide or modify parking spaces so they can use and enjoy their homes safely and equally.

Reasonable Accommodation: Any change in rules, policies, or services that helps a person with disabilities have equal housing opportunity.
Accessible Parking: A parking spot close to your apartment or with enough room for mobility aids, like wheelchairs.

The Indiana Fair Housing Act and the federal Fair Housing Act protect these rights.^[1][2]

How to Request a Parking Accommodation

To request an accessible parking space, a renter should send a written request to the landlord or property manager. While Indiana law does not require a specific form, it is a good idea to document your request for future reference. Your request should include:

That you (or a household member) have a disability
The type of accommodation needed (e.g., a designated parking spot close to your unit)
Any accessibility requirements (extra width for wheelchair access, van parking, etc.)

Your landlord may ask for verification that the accommodation is needed due to a disability, but they cannot ask for details about your diagnosis. Landlords must respond promptly and cannot charge extra fees for reasonable accommodations.^[2]

Official Forms for Indiana Renters

Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter (no official form number)
When to use: Use this letter to formally ask your landlord for an accessible parking space. For example, if you use a wheelchair and need a wider spot close to your apartment door.
How to use: Draft a letter outlining your need and submit it to your landlord or property manager. You may use the sample request from the Indiana Fair Housing Guide’s Appendix E.
Download the Indiana Reasonable Accommodation Sample Letter (see Appendix E)
HUD Form 903 Complaint Form
When to use: If your request is denied or ignored, you can file a discrimination complaint.
How to use: File online or mail the completed HUD Form 903 to report fair housing violations.
Download HUD Form 903

Documentation is important. Make sure to keep a copy of your request and any communication with your landlord.

What Indiana Law Says

The main rental housing legislation in Indiana is the Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations^[3]. There are no specific parking rules in this code, but it works alongside the federal Fair Housing Act for disability accommodations.

Tip: If you’re unsure about what to include in your request, reference Indiana’s official fair housing sample letter or check with the Indiana Civil Rights Commission for guidance.

Indiana Agency for Tenant-Landlord Complaints

If your request is ignored or unreasonably denied, you may file a complaint with the Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC), which enforces fair housing laws in Indiana. You can also contact the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

What to Expect as a Renter

Landlords must respond to requests for reasonable accommodations within a reasonable time.
No extra rent or fees can be charged for these changes.
If parking modifications are possible, the landlord should work with you to create an accessible solution.
If your request is denied, ask for the reason in writing, and consider filing a complaint with the ICRC or HUD.

Summing up: Make sure to document your requests, know where to find help, and reach out if your rights are violated.

FAQ: Indiana Renters and Disability Parking Accommodations

Can my landlord charge me more rent for an accessible parking space?
No, landlords are not allowed to charge tenants additional fees for reasonable accommodations, including accessible parking.
What if my landlord ignores my request?
If your landlord does not respond, you can file a complaint with the Indiana Civil Rights Commission or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Is my landlord required to create a new parking spot if none are available?
Landlords must try to accommodate within what is reasonable, but they are not required to make major structural changes if it is not feasible.
How do I prove I need a parking accommodation?
Your landlord may ask for verification from a medical professional that you need the accommodation, but not for specific medical details.
Can I request multiple accommodations (e.g., parking and unit modifications)?
Yes, tenants can request all accommodations they reasonably need, and each should be considered separately by the landlord.

Key Takeaways for Indiana Renters

Indiana renters with disabilities have strong legal rights to reasonable parking accommodations.
Requests must be in writing and clearly state the need for an accessible space.
If issues arise, support is available through the Indiana Civil Rights Commission and HUD.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC) – File housing discrimination complaints, get support, and access forms.
Indiana Fair Housing Guide – Detailed guidance for renters and landlords, including sample letters and FAQs.
HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity – Federal fair housing complaint process and resources.
Indiana Landlord-Tenant Law (IC 32-31) – Complete state legislation on residential tenancy.

Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC), Housing Discrimination Resources
Fair Housing Act (Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968)
Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations