Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation as a Michigan Renter

Renters in Michigan with disabilities are protected by both federal and state laws that ensure equal access to housing. If you or someone in your household needs changes or exceptions due to a disability, you can request a "reasonable accommodation" from your landlord. This guide explains how to make such requests in Michigan, what legal protections apply, the necessary forms, and how to get help if you face discrimination or denial.

What Is a Reasonable Accommodation?

A "reasonable accommodation" is a change to rules, policies, or physical aspects of a rental home to allow a person with a disability to enjoy their housing equally. Examples include allowing an assistance animal in a no-pets building, installing grab bars in the bathroom, or getting a reserved parking spot near your unit.

Both federal law (the Fair Housing Act) and Michigan’s state laws require landlords to consider these requests and make accommodations unless doing so would create an undue hardship or fundamentally change the nature of the housing.

Your Rights as a Michigan Renter with a Disability

Michigan renters are protected from housing discrimination under the Michigan Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act and the federal Fair Housing Act. Landlords cannot refuse to rent to or treat you differently because of a disability, and must seriously consider reasonable accommodation requests.^[1]

Examples of Reasonable Accommodations

• Allowing an emotional support animal despite a "no pets" policy
• Permitting transfer to an accessible unit
• Assigning a reserved accessible parking space close to your entry
• Granting extra time for moving out during an eviction if related to your disability

If you have questions about what qualifies as "reasonable," consider reaching out to Michigan's Civil Rights Department or a legal aid resource.

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation in Michigan

There is no universal form required by law, but it’s important to make your request in writing for clarity and recordkeeping. Landlords may have their own form, or you may use templates provided by civil rights agencies. Written requests should include:

• Your name and contact information
• The specific accommodation you are requesting
• Why you need it (you do not have to disclose your exact diagnosis, only that you have a disability covered by law)
• A letter from a medical provider (if your disability is not obvious)

Official Form: Sample Request for Reasonable Accommodation

The State of Michigan Civil Rights Department provides a Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request which you can adapt to your needs:

• Form Name: Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter
• When to use: Use when you need a documented, official request to your landlord for an accommodation
• Where to find: Download from the Michigan Department of Civil Rights Fair Housing section

What Happens After You Submit Your Request?

After your landlord receives your request, they should reply in a reasonable period—usually within 7-14 days. They may ask for verification if the need for accommodation isn’t obvious. They cannot charge you extra rent or require extra deposits for an accommodation.

If your request is denied, your landlord must explain the reason. You have the right to file a discrimination complaint if you feel the decision was unfair.

How to File a Complaint

If you believe your accommodation request was wrongfully denied, you may file a complaint with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) or HUD. This can be done online, by phone, or in person. The tribunal responsible for residential tenancy disagreements in Michigan is generally handled in local District Court for landlord-tenant cases, but discrimination/civil rights complaints go to the Michigan Department of Civil Rights.^[2]

Legislation Covering Michigan Renters

• Michigan Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act (Act 220 of 1976)
• Federal Fair Housing Act

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can my landlord charge me a pet fee for my service animal or emotional support animal?
   No, Michigan and federal laws prohibit landlords from charging additional pet fees or deposits for assistive animals related to a disability.
2. What counts as a disability under Michigan law?
   A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity, such as mobility, vision, mental health, or chronic medical conditions. Documentation may be requested if not obvious.
3. Do I have to use a specific government form to request an accommodation?
   No, there’s no single required form, but using a written request (like the MDCR’s sample letter) is recommended for your records.
4. If my landlord does not respond to my accommodation request, what should I do?
   Follow up in writing, then consider contacting the Michigan Department of Civil Rights or a legal aid organization if you receive no response.
5. Can my landlord say no to my request?
   Yes, but only if the request is unreasonable (causes significant hardship, expense, or fundamentally changes the nature of their business). The landlord must explain their reasons.

Key Takeaways for Michigan Renters

• You have the right to request reasonable accommodation for disabilities under Michigan and federal law.
• Put accommodation requests in writing and keep all documentation.
• If a landlord denies your request, you can appeal to the Michigan Department of Civil Rights or seek legal help.

Understanding your rights makes it easier to advocate for yourself and secure the accommodations you need.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan Department of Civil Rights – Fair Housing: File discrimination complaints, find guidance, and access sample forms
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – File a Complaint
• Michigan Legal Help: Online legal information and resources for Michigan tenants
• Michigan Courts (District Court Locator): For questions about landlord-tenant cases

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1. Michigan Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act (Act 220 of 1976); Federal Fair Housing Act
2. Michigan Department of Civil Rights

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