Can my Kansas landlord raise my rent just because I requested a disability accommodation?

No, landlords cannot legally raise your rent solely because you requested an accessibility upgrade. Such increases may violate fair housing laws.

Do I need a specific form for accessibility upgrade requests in Kansas?

No official Kansas form is required for accommodation requests, but submit your request in writing and keep records.

What should I do if I suspect a rent increase is retaliation for my accommodation request?

Document communications, consider contacting Kansas Legal Services, and if needed, file a discrimination complaint using HUD Form 903.

Where do I dispute a rent increase related to disability accommodations in Kansas?

Rental disputes are handled by Kansas District Courts. You may also contact the Attorney General or legal aid services for help.

What notice is required for a Kansas landlord to increase rent?

For month-to-month tenants, at least 30 days’ written notice is required for rent increases under Kansas law.

Kansas Rules on Rent Increases After Accessibility Upgrades

Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Kansas published: June 21, 2025

Renters in Kansas sometimes request or require accessibility upgrades to their rental units—such as grab bars in bathrooms or ramps—to help with a disability. It’s important to know what state law says about rent increases after these upgrades, as well as what protections and process apply to you. This guide explains your rights, your landlord’s responsibilities, and the official procedures around accessibility upgrades and rent adjustments.

Accessibility Modifications: What Are They?

Accessibility modifications—also called disability accommodations—are changes made to your rental unit to make it easier and safer for you to live with a disability. Examples include:

Installing wheelchair ramps
Adding grab bars or handrails
Lowering cabinets or counters
Widening doorways

Under federal law (the Fair Housing Act), landlords cannot refuse a reasonable accommodation if you have a disability, and you have the right to request these changes. However, Kansas law has its own rules on who pays for modifications and how rent can be changed in relation to these upgrades.

Who Pays for Accessibility Upgrades in Kansas?

In Kansas, unless otherwise agreed, it is generally the renter's responsibility to pay for reasonable modifications to accommodate a disability.^[1] However, landlords must allow such changes, provided you restore the unit when you move out (if reasonable). These rules protect your right to equal housing access.

Rent Increases After Accessibility Upgrades

Kansas law does not allow landlords to raise your rent simply because you requested or installed a disability accommodation or accessibility upgrade. They cannot charge a higher rent to people with disabilities than to other tenants in similar units.^[2] However, a landlord may require you to pay for the cost of the modifications and may require you to return the unit to its original condition at the end of your tenancy (excluding normal wear and tear).

If you and your landlord agree in writing that the landlord will make and pay for an upgrade, a rent increase may only occur if it’s part of a new written agreement signed by both parties. Kansas law also requires written notice for any rent increase (30 days or more before the increase goes into effect for month-to-month tenants). For fixed-term leases, rent generally cannot be increased until renewal.

Notice Requirements for Kansas Rent Increases

Month-to-month leases: Your landlord must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before any rent increase.^[1]
Fixed-term leases (e.g., annual): The rent cannot be increased until the lease is renewed or renegotiated.
No retroactive rent increases: Increases can never be backdated.

Tip: If you suspect a rent increase is in retaliation for your disability accommodation request, you may have legal protections. Document all communication and seek help promptly.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

Kansas Notice of Rent Increase (No official state form):
Landlords usually provide written notice, but Kansas does not have a government-issued rent increase form. If you receive such notice, ensure it gives at least 30 days before the higher rent is due. Keep a copy for your records. If you believe the rent increase is discriminatory, you can file a complaint as explained below.
Fair Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (HUD 903):
Use if you believe your landlord is raising your rent because of your disability or accommodation request. The HUD Form 903 lets you report housing discrimination to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Example: If you receive a rent increase immediately after requesting a wheelchair ramp, and suspect discrimination, fill out and submit this form.
More details at the HUD housing discrimination complaint process page.

Which Tribunal or Board Handles Rental Disputes in Kansas?

In Kansas, the local District Court handles rental disputes, including issues related to rent increases and reasonable accommodations. If disputes can't be resolved directly, you may need to file in your county's district court for legal remedies.

Relevant Tenant Laws and Protections

Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – includes rules on rent changes and tenant rights
Federal Fair Housing Act – prohibits disability discrimination, including housing terms and conditions

If you have questions about your rights or believe your landlord is not following the law, you can consult the Kansas Attorney General’s office or a local legal aid provider for free advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my Kansas landlord raise my rent just because I requested a disability accommodation?
No. A landlord cannot increase your rent just because you asked for an accessibility upgrade. They may require you to cover the cost of the upgrade, but not charge higher rent solely due to your disability needs.
What if my landlord wants to increase my rent during my lease?
For fixed-term leases, Kansas law does not allow mid-lease rent increases. Changes can only take effect at renewal unless your lease states otherwise.
I received a rent increase notice right after asking for a ramp. What should I do?
Document your communications. If you suspect discrimination, consider filing a complaint with HUD using Form 903 or seeking legal aid.
Do I need to use a specific form for accessibility requests?
No official Kansas form is required for requesting accessibility upgrades, but put your request in writing and keep records for your protection.
Where can I get help disputing a rent increase?
You can contact the local District Court, Kansas Legal Services, or file a HUD discrimination complaint if you believe the increase is related to your disability accommodation request.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Kansas District Courts (Tribunal for Rental Disputes)
Kansas Attorney General’s Office – General guidance on housing rights
Kansas Legal Services – Free or low-cost legal assistance
U.S. HUD Fair Housing Information

See Chapter 58, Article 25 of the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
Federal Fair Housing Act: Title VIII