Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation as a Mississippi Renter

If you have a disability and rent your home in Mississippi, you have specific rights under federal and state law to request changes—known as 'reasonable accommodations'—that help you enjoy your rental just like anyone else. This guide offers practical steps to help Mississippi renters navigate the process of requesting an accommodation, explains common forms, and highlights your legal protections.

What is a Reasonable Accommodation?

A reasonable accommodation is a change to rules, policies, practices, or services that a person with a disability may need to use and enjoy their rental home. For example, a landlord may allow an exception to a 'no pets' policy for a service animal or assign an accessible parking space.

• Reasonable accommodations can be requested at any time during your tenancy.
• Your request must relate to your disability and housing needs.
• Your landlord must consider the request unless it poses an ‘undue financial or administrative burden’ or fundamentally changes the nature of the housing.

The right to request accommodations is protected under the federal Fair Housing Act and the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Your Legal Rights as a Renter with a Disability in Mississippi

Mississippi renters are protected by federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination based on disability. Landlords cannot refuse to rent, evict, or otherwise treat you differently because you request a reasonable accommodation.

• The Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 89, Chapter 8) covers most rental arrangements.
• The Fair Housing Act applies to most housing situations, including most apartments and rental homes, and prohibits discrimination.

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation in Mississippi

It is your right to ask your landlord for a change that helps you live comfortably and safely in your rental unit. Here are the essential steps to follow:

1. Put Your Request in Writing

Although you can request an accommodation verbally, it is best to do so in writing. There is no official statewide form, but the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides helpful sample letters. Your letter should include:

• Your name and address
• A clear description of the accommodation you need
• Information explaining how the accommodation relates to your disability (you do not need to disclose your diagnosis)
• The date of your request

See this HUD guidance and sample language.

2. Include Supporting Information if Requested

Your landlord may ask for verification that you have a disability and need the accommodation. This may be a short note from a medical provider. The landlord cannot ask for detailed medical records or information about your condition.

3. Submit Your Request

• Provide your written request to the landlord or property manager.
• Keep a copy for your records and note the date submitted.

If the accommodation is urgent (such as needing a grab bar for safety), let your landlord know in your request.

4. Wait for a Response

Landlords are required to respond promptly. If a landlord denies your request, they must provide a valid reason.

Official Form: Mississippi Fair Housing Complaint

• Form Name: Mississippi Fair Housing Complaint Intake Form
• When to Use: If your landlord refuses your reasonable accommodation request or you believe you have been discriminated against, you can file this form with the Mississippi Home Corporation or with HUD.
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (Form 903-1) (pdf)
• Example: If your landlord denies a ramp installation needed for wheelchair access, complete this form to initiate a discrimination complaint.

File online or print and mail the form to HUD. For cases in Mississippi, you may also contact the Mississippi Home Corporation.

If the Landlord Says No or Won't Respond

You do not have to accept a 'no' if your request is reasonable and connected to your disability. You can:

• Ask the landlord for a written explanation for the denial
• Contact the HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity
• File a complaint directly with the HUD complaint portal

Mississippi’s Rental Housing Authority

The Mississippi Home Corporation helps oversee housing programs and may assist you with discrimination or accommodation questions. There is not a state housing tribunal, but complaints often go through HUD.

Relevant Mississippi Tenancy Legislation

• Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Federal Fair Housing Act

FAQ: Reasonable Accommodation Requests in Mississippi

1. What is considered a reasonable accommodation?
   A change to a landlord’s policy, practice, or services that helps a renter with a disability use and enjoy their home. Examples include installing ramps, allowing a service animal, or providing accessible parking.
2. How long does a landlord have to respond to an accommodation request?
   Landlords should respond promptly—usually within a few days, but the law does not set a specific deadline. Document all timelines in writing for your records.
3. Can my landlord deny my reasonable accommodation request?
   Landlords can only deny if the request causes undue financial or administrative burden, or fundamentally alters the nature of their business. Otherwise, they are required by law to consider your request in good faith.
4. Do I have to share details of my disability with my landlord?
   You are not required to share your specific diagnosis, but you may need to provide verification that you have a disability and need the accommodation.
5. Where do I file a discrimination complaint if my request is denied?
   File a complaint with HUD using the Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (903-1) or online through the HUD complaint portal.

Key Takeaways for Mississippi Renters

• Requesting a reasonable accommodation is your right under federal and Mississippi law.
• Keep all accommodation requests and landlord responses in writing for your records.
• If your request is denied without valid reason, you can file a complaint with HUD or seek assistance from local housing resources.

Understanding and following these steps will help protect your rights as a renter with a disability in Mississippi.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• File a Fair Housing Complaint with HUD
• Mississippi Home Corporation: 601-718-4642
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services: Free legal help for eligible low-income residents
• Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Full Text)
• HUD Fair Housing Act Overview

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1. Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Title 89, Chapter 8
2. Federal Fair Housing Act
3. HUD Joint Statement on Reasonable Accommodations
4. HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (903-1)

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