Kentucky Rules on Rent Increases After Accessibility Upgrades

Renters in Kentucky who request accessibility upgrades—like wheelchair ramps or grab bars—often worry about unexpected rent increases after the work is done. Understanding your rights is crucial to stay protected and make informed decisions, especially as a renter with a disability or mobility issues.

Can Your Rent Be Raised After Accessibility Upgrades?

In Kentucky, both federal and state laws protect renters with disabilities. If you request a reasonable modification to make your home accessible, the main rules concerning rent increases are:

• Landlords cannot raise your rent solely because you requested a disability-related modification. This means your rent should not be increased just because you asked for accessibility features.
• If a landlord provides extra amenities or substantial improvements unrelated to your needs (like major property upgrades), they may be allowed to raise rent—but not as direct retaliation or specifically because of your disability.

These protections are covered under the federal Fair Housing Act and Kentucky’s own landlord-tenant law: the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^1,2

Making Accessibility Requests: What Renters Should Know

If you or a household member needs modifications due to a disability, you have the right to request them in writing. Typical upgrades include installing ramps, grab bars, or accessible door handles.

• You are responsible for covering the cost of the modification unless the rental receives federal funding.
• In most cases, your landlord may require the modification to be performed professionally and could ask you to restore the unit to its original condition at the end of your lease.
• Landlords cannot use your request as grounds to increase your rent in Kentucky.

Relevant Official Forms for Kentucky Renters

• Reasonable Modification Request Letter (No Form Number): There is no official state form, but creating a written request is highly recommended. Clearly specify the modification needed and why. An example and guidance can be found at the HUD Joint Statement on Reasonable Modifications.
  • When to use: When you need your rental made accessible for disability-related reasons.
  • How to use: Submit to your landlord; keep a copy for your records.
• Housing Discrimination Complaint (HUD Form 903): Used if you believe your landlord unlawfully raised rent because of your disability request.
  • When to use: If you experience retaliation, including unwarranted rent increases directly related to a modification request.
  • How to use: Complete online or via mail. Find details and forms at the HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process.

How Kentucky Regulates Rent Increases

Kentucky does not have statewide rent control. However, landlords must follow rules about how and when they can increase rent:

• They must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing your rent for a month-to-month lease (unless your local city has adopted additional protections under the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act).
• The increase must not be retaliatory or discriminatory. An increase after accessibility upgrades, without a valid reason, could be considered discriminatory under fair housing laws.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes in Kentucky?

Kentucky rental disputes are handled through local District Courts, but not all counties are covered by the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA). To find your county’s status and court, use the Kentucky Court System Directory. Discrimination complaints can also be submitted through HUD or the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights.

FAQ: Rent Increases After Accessibility Upgrades in Kentucky

1. Can my landlord raise my rent just because I asked for a disability modification?
   No. Under both federal and Kentucky law, landlords are not allowed to increase your rent solely because you requested accessibility upgrades for a disability.
2. What should I do if my rent increases right after an accessibility upgrade?
   First, ask your landlord in writing for the reason behind the increase. If you suspect it's retaliation or discrimination, you can contact HUD or the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights to file a complaint.
3. Is there a form I can use in Kentucky to request accessibility modifications?
   There is no official Kentucky state form, but a written reasonable modification request is standard. Refer to guidance from HUD’s Joint Statement on Reasonable Modifications for sample language.
4. Who enforces fair housing rules for rent increases after accessibility upgrades?
   Complaints about rent discrimination can be filed with HUD or the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights. Local district courts handle general rental disputes.
5. How much notice must my Kentucky landlord give before raising my rent?
   For most month-to-month leases, landlords must provide at least 30 days' written notice.

Key Takeaways for Kentucky Renters

• Landlords cannot increase your rent just because you asked for a disability or accessibility upgrade.
• Always put modification requests in writing and keep copies of all communication.
• If you suspect discrimination or retaliation, contact HUD or the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights for help.

Remember: Written records can be your best defense if problems arise.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky Commission on Human Rights – File state-level discrimination complaints or request mediation.
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process – File federal complaints on housing discrimination or retaliation.
• Kentucky District Courts – For general rental and eviction disputes.
• Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Read your rights and obligations.
• HUD Joint Statement on Reasonable Modifications – Sample request letters and guidance.

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1. Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA)
2. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Disability Rights in Housing

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