Requesting Reasonable Accommodation as a Maryland Renter

If you are a renter with a disability in Maryland, you have the right to request reasonable accommodations from your landlord, under both federal and state law. Reasonable accommodations can help you access and enjoy your housing on an equal basis. This article will explain the process, your rights, and the official resources available.

Understanding Reasonable Accommodation in Maryland

Reasonable accommodation means a landlord must make changes to policies, rules, or the physical environment to allow tenants with disabilities to use and enjoy their home, unless doing so would cause an undue financial or administrative burden. Examples include allowing a service animal in a "no pet" building, granting a reserved accessible parking spot, or approving installation of grab bars in a bathroom.

• Federal laws: The Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Maryland law: The Maryland Fair Housing Act

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation

The process of requesting an accommodation in Maryland is straightforward, but it's important to put your request in writing and keep records. You do not need to use a specific form, but an official template can help clarify your needs for your landlord. The Maryland Department of Disabilities and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offer easy-to-use sample letters and guides.

Key Steps to Request an Accommodation

• Put your request in writing (email or letter is preferred)
• Clearly state that you are requesting a "reasonable accommodation" for a disability
• Describe the accommodation you need and why it helps you access your housing
• Include supporting documentation from a medical provider if appropriate (not always required)
• Keep copies of all communications

Official Forms and Templates

• HUD Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter – Use to make your written request to your landlord.
  Access it at HUD Reasonable Accommodations Guide.
  Example use: A Maryland renter needs permission to install a ramp. This letter formally asks the landlord for the change and explains the reason.
• Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR) Housing Discrimination Complaint Form – If your request is denied or ignored, file a complaint here.
  Official form and filing instructions at MCCR.
  Example use: A tenant's request for a service animal is denied despite medical documentation, so they file this form to open an investigation.

Next Steps if Your Request is Denied

If a landlord refuses your accommodation request without a valid reason or ignores you, you have the right to file a complaint. In Maryland, housing discrimination complaints are handled by the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Both agencies can investigate and help resolve disputes.

Your Rights Under Maryland Law

Maryland's Fair Housing Act protects renters from discrimination due to disability. It is illegal for a landlord to deny reasonable accommodations or retaliate against you for asserting your rights.

FAQ: Reasonable Accommodation in Maryland Rental Housing

1. What counts as a disability for requesting a reasonable accommodation?
   A disability includes any physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as walking, seeing, or learning. Medical documentation can support your request but is not always required.
2. Can my landlord ask for proof of my disability?
   Yes, a landlord may ask for verification that you have a qualifying disability and need the accommodation, but they cannot ask for detailed medical records or a specific diagnosis.
3. How quickly must a landlord respond to my request?
   There is no set number of days in Maryland law, but landlords should respond promptly—delays could be seen as a denial.
4. What can I do if my landlord denies my request?
   You can file a complaint with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights or HUD using the official forms listed above.
5. Am I responsible for the cost of a modification?
   In many cases, you may be responsible for the cost of physical modifications (such as ramps), but not for accommodations to rules or policies. Check with MCCR for guidance for your specific situation.

Conclusion: What Maryland Renters Should Remember

• You have the right to request reasonable accommodation if you or someone in your household has a disability.
• Make your request in writing and keep records.
• If your request is refused, you can get support from Maryland and federal agencies.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR) – File complaints, get guidance: (410) 767-8600
• HUD Fair Housing Complaints
• Maryland Department of Disabilities – Housing Resources
• People’s Law Library of Maryland: Disability Accommodations

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1. Maryland Fair Housing Act, Md. Code, State Government §20-704
2. U.S. Fair Housing Act, 42 U.S.C. §§3601 et seq.
3. HUD: Reasonable Accommodations under the Fair Housing Act
4. Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR)

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