Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation in Massachusetts

If you have a disability and rent housing in Massachusetts, you have important rights under both federal and state laws. One of these is the ability to request a reasonable accommodation—changes to rules, policies, or physical spaces so your rental home remains accessible and livable. This guide walks you through the process step-by-step, from understanding your rights, to submitting the right forms, and what to do if you need help.

Understanding Reasonable Accommodation

"Reasonable accommodation" means a change to a housing rule, policy, practice, or service that helps a person with a disability fully enjoy and use their home. Landlords in Massachusetts are required by law to provide these accommodations unless doing so would create an undue financial or administrative burden, or fundamentally alter how the housing operates.^[1][2]

Who Is Eligible?

• Renters with a physical or mental disability as defined by law
• Persons who need a change to policies or physical modifications to fully use the rental unit

Under Massachusetts Fair Housing Law, protections apply to all rental units, regardless of building size, and are reinforced by the federal Fair Housing Act.

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation

Follow these steps to make your request as clear and effective as possible.

Step 1: Prepare Your Request

• Identify the specific accommodation you need (e.g., a service animal exception, grab bars in the bathroom).
• Be ready to explain how the accommodation relates to your disability (detailed medical records are not required, but a brief note from a healthcare provider may help).

Step 2: Use a Written Request Form (Recommended)

Although you can request accommodations verbally, it is best to make your request in writing for documentation. Massachusetts does not have a single statewide official form, but many local housing authorities and landlords accept written letters or use the following sample from the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities.

• Form Name: Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter
  When/how to use: If you are a renter needing an accommodation, fill out the letter with your request and submit it to your landlord or housing provider. For example, a tenant with mobility issues can use this letter to formally ask for a reserved accessible parking space.
  Download Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter (PDF)

Step 3: Wait for Response

• Landlords must respond promptly to requests, usually within 10–14 days.
• If they need additional information, they should ask for it quickly and clearly.

Step 4: If Your Request Is Denied or Ignored

• If your request is denied, the landlord must provide a valid reason in writing.
• If you feel the denial is unfair, or your request is ignored, you may file a complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) or HUD.

Where to File a Complaint

• Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD): Handles housing-related discrimination complaints.
  File a complaint online
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): For federal Fair Housing violations.
  Submit a Fair Housing Complaint to HUD

What Is Considered a Reasonable Accommodation?

• Permitting service or emotional support animals even if there’s a "no pets" policy
• Installing grab bars, ramps, or visual smoke alarms
• Assigning an accessible parking spot
• Allowing transfers to a ground-floor unit
• Adjusting rent payment schedules for disability income timing

Accommodations should not fundamentally alter housing or pose an undue hardship on the landlord.

The Law: Your Rights in Writing

Your rights to reasonable accommodation are protected under the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 151B and the federal Fair Housing Act.^[1][2]

FAQ: Massachusetts Reasonable Accommodation for Renters

1. Can my landlord ask for proof of my disability?
   Landlords can request documentation showing you have a disability and need the accommodation, but they cannot demand detailed medical records or diagnoses.
2. Does a reasonable accommodation have to be free for renters?
   Yes, renters cannot be charged extra fees or deposits for approved accommodations (for example, a support animal or installing grab bars).
3. How long does a landlord have to respond to my request?
   Landlords should respond promptly, typically within 10–14 days, but must act "without undue delay."
4. What if my landlord denies my request?
   If you believe the denial is unfair, you can file a complaint with MCAD or with HUD.
5. Is there a deadline to file a discrimination complaint in Massachusetts?
   You generally have 300 days to file a complaint with MCAD from when the alleged discrimination happened.

Key Takeaways

• You have the right to request reasonable accommodations under Massachusetts and federal law.
• Put your request in writing and keep copies of all communications.
• If denied, act quickly—support is available from state and federal agencies.

Knowing the process helps protect your rights and keep your home accessible.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD): Main state tribunal for housing discrimination cases
• Massachusetts Tenants' Rights - Housing and Community Development: Statewide guide and contact info
• HUD: Information for People with Disabilities
• U.S. Department of Justice: Fair Housing Act
• Legal help: MassLegalHelp – Disability Rights in Housing (statewide nonprofit)

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1. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 151B – Fair Housing Protections
2. Federal Fair Housing Act – U.S. Department of Justice
3. Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD)
4. Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter – Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities

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