Can my landlord charge higher rent because of my accessibility needs?

No. Nebraska and federal laws prohibit rent increases based on disability or accessibility modifications. Rent can only be raised following general guidelines.

What if my landlord tries to evict me for refusing a rent hike after an accessibility upgrade?

This may be discriminatory. Contact the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission and consider submitting an official complaint.

How much notice does my landlord have to give before increasing rent in Nebraska?

For month-to-month leases, at least 30 days' written notice is required before a rent increase becomes effective.

Is there a special form I must use to request accessibility modifications?

No Nebraska-specific form is mandated, but it's best to put your request in writing using clear language.

Who handles accessibility or discrimination housing complaints in Nebraska?

The Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC) manages discrimination and accessibility housing complaints.

Nebraska Rules: Rent Increases After Accessibility Upgrades

Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Nebraska published: June 21, 2025

Nebraska renters who need accessibility upgrades—such as wheelchair ramps or accessible bathrooms—are protected by important laws at both the state and federal level. However, questions often arise when landlords seek to raise the rent after these improvements. Knowing your rights can help you make informed decisions and respond confidently.

Can Landlords Increase Rent After Accessibility Upgrades?

Under Nebraska law, renters with disabilities have rights to request and, in many cases, install accessibility modifications to their homes. Landlords generally cannot increase the rent simply because you request or install a modification related to your disability.

Reasonable Modifications: According to the federal Fair Housing Act and the Nebraska Fair Housing Act, renters with disabilities are entitled to make reasonable modifications at their own expense.¹
Rent Increases: Nebraska landlords may only increase rent for allowable reasons and with appropriate notice according to the Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.² Accessibility upgrades alone are not a legal reason for a special rent increase.
Routine Rent Changes: Landlords may still increase rent as part of their regular business practices, but not because of your disability needs.

Always check your lease to understand your current rent and any terms for modifications. Rent increases require advanced written notice (typically at least 30 days for month-to-month tenancies).

Your Rights Under Nebraska and Federal Law

Both Nebraska and federal law protect renters with disabilities from discrimination and unjustified rent increases.

The federal Fair Housing Act gives you the right to reasonable modifications.
The Nebraska Fair Housing Act (Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 20-318 et seq.) enforces similar protections at the state level.¹
Your landlord must treat all tenants equally. Asking for a modification or having one should not subject you to different rent rules than other tenants.

Landlords are allowed to request that you return the property to its original condition (reasonable wear and tear excepted) at the end of your lease, unless the changes don't interfere with future renters' use.

When Can a Landlord Increase Rent in Nebraska?

Landlords must follow Nebraska's rental laws when raising rent for any reason. They may only increase rent:

At the end of a lease term or during a periodic (month-to-month) lease—never during a fixed-term lease unless your lease specifically allows for such increases
With written notice, usually at least 30 days before the new rent takes effect²
If the increase is not discriminatory or retaliatory

Official Forms for Accessibility and Rent Issues

Most accessibility upgrades are requested through written communication rather than formal court forms. However, should a dispute arise, these official Nebraska resources are useful:

Reasonable Accommodation/Modification Request Form: While Nebraska does not issue a state-specific form, HUD provides a sample letter format for requesting changes. See HUD example language for your own request.
Eviction or Notice to Quit Forms: If facing a rent increase dispute leading to eviction, landlords use the 10-Day Notice to Quit for Nonpayment of Rent or other official notices.
Example: If a landlord tries to evict you because you refused to pay an unlawful increased rent after an accessibility upgrade, this form would start the eviction process.
To file a discrimination complaint, renters use the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (download here).
Example: If you believe a rent increase is due to your disability request, submit this form to the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission.

Which Nebraska Agency Handles Disputes?

The Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC) handles housing discrimination and accessibility disputes. For landlord-tenant disagreements, the local county County Court manages eviction and rent-related cases.

Action Steps if You Face an Unjust Rent Increase

Ask your landlord to confirm the reason and provide written documentation of the rent increase.
Review your lease and Nebraska's Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for rent guidelines.
If the increase seems related to your disability or modification request, contact the NEOC or a legal aid office immediately.
Document all communications and keep copies of your requests, responses, and notices.

If you need step-by-step help on submitting a form or complaint, see the detailed instructions below.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can my landlord charge higher rent because of my accessibility needs?
No. Nebraska law and federal law prohibit rent increases based on disability or related accessibility upgrades. Any increase must follow normal rent and lease rules.
What if my landlord tries to evict me for refusing a rent hike after an upgrade?
This may be a form of discrimination. Contact the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission right away and consider filing a complaint.
Do I need to use a specific form to request an accessibility modification?
No state-specific form is required, but it’s best to put your request in writing. Use HUD’s sample language for clarity.
How much notice must a landlord give before increasing rent in Nebraska?
For month-to-month leases, landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice before any increase can take effect.
Where can I get official help with housing discrimination?
Contact the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission or use their official complaint form if you believe your rights are violated.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Nebraska Renters

Landlords cannot increase your rent because you need or request accessibility upgrades related to disability.
All rent increases must follow Nebraska law and your lease terms—always request written notice and document everything.
If facing discrimination, prompt action through official state channels is vital for protecting your rights.

Staying informed empowers you to safeguard your home and your rights as a Nebraska renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC) – For housing discrimination complaints
Nebraska Supreme Court Landlord-Tenant Forms – For notices, complaints, and court filings
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Nebraska Fair Housing Office
Legal Aid of Nebraska – Free legal help for eligible renters

See the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission for information on the Nebraska Fair Housing Act and discrimination protections.
Refer to the Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for all official forms, requirements for notice, and rent increase rules.