What documentation do I need to request a reasonable accommodation in Nevada?

Usually, a written request and a letter from a healthcare provider explaining why the accommodation is related to your disability are enough. The provider does not need to disclose your exact diagnosis, just the connection between your need and the accommodation.

Is my landlord allowed to deny my request?

Your landlord can only deny a request if it is not reasonable—meaning it causes significant hardship or fundamentally changes the property. Most simple changes, like an assistance animal, must be allowed unless there is a strong reason not to.

Can I be charged a pet deposit for an assistance or emotional support animal in Nevada?

No, under both federal and state law, landlords may not charge extra fees or deposits for assistance animals used as an accommodation for a disability.

How long does my landlord have to respond to my reasonable accommodation request?

There is no precise deadline, but landlords are required to respond promptly – usually within 10–15 days. If you do not get a response, you can escalate your request to the Nevada Equal Rights Commission.

Who can help me if my landlord denies or ignores my request?

You can file a housing discrimination complaint with the Nevada Equal Rights Commission, which will investigate and help resolve the issue. You may also seek additional support from legal aid services in Nevada.

Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation as a Nevada Renter

Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Nevada published: June 21, 2025

If you rent in Nevada and have a disability, you have important rights to ask your landlord for changes—called reasonable accommodations—to help you enjoy your home equally. A reasonable accommodation could mean allowing an assistance animal, a reserved parking spot close to your unit, or permission to install grab bars for safety. Understanding the process and your protections under Nevada and federal law can help you make a successful request.

What Is a Reasonable Accommodation?

A reasonable accommodation is any change to a landlord’s rules, policies, practices, or services that is necessary so a person with a disability can use and enjoy their home like anyone else. This is protected by both the federal Fair Housing Act and the Nevada Revised Statutes.

Common examples include: permitting an emotional support animal even in a "no pets" building, installing ramps, or providing accessible parking.
Landlords must usually grant these requests unless doing so would cause an "undue financial or administrative burden" or fundamentally alter the property.

Your Rights and Nevada Law

As a renter, you are protected under the Nevada Fair Housing Law (NRS Chapter 118) and the federal Fair Housing Act.¹ These laws cover disabilities—including physical, mental, and chronic conditions—and ensure landlords cannot refuse reasonable accommodation requests.

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation in Nevada

Submitting the request in writing isn’t required by law, but it’s strongly recommended for your records. Your landlord does not have an official statewide government form for this request, but federal guidance applies.

Main Steps to Request Accommodation

Identify what change you need (e.g., a service animal, accessible parking).
Explain how your disability relates to the request (you do not need to name your specific diagnosis, but should note the functional need).
Write and deliver your request to your landlord, keeping a copy.
Provide supporting documentation from a healthcare provider if your disability or need is not obvious.

Sample Forms and Template Letters

Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter: The Nevada Equal Rights Commission (NERC) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recommend writing a letter including:
- Your name, address, and contact
- The date
- Your accommodation request and why it is needed
- Optional: doctor's note or professional verification
You can base your letter on HUD's Reasonable Accommodation Information guide. No official form or number exists for Nevada.
Verification of Disability Form: Some landlords may provide their own form for you or your healthcare provider to complete. You are not required to use a specific form and can provide your supporting letter instead.

If your request is denied or ignored, you can file a complaint with the Nevada Equal Rights Commission (NERC)—the state agency responsible for enforcing fair housing rights. The complaint process uses the NERC Housing Discrimination Complaint Form.²

Who Handles Tenant-Landlord Disputes in Nevada?

The Nevada Equal Rights Commission (NERC) is the official state body for housing discrimination complaints. For court disputes over tenancies, Nevada renters can contact the Nevada Judiciary - Courts, but most reasonable accommodation issues start with NERC.

Summary of the Request Process

Making a reasonable accommodation request in Nevada involves clear communication, documentation, and knowing your rights. Most requests are resolved directly with the landlord, but renters are protected if issues escalate.

Tip: Keep written records of all conversations and submissions about your accommodation request. This protects you if issues arise later.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What documentation do I need to request a reasonable accommodation in Nevada?
Usually, a written request and a letter from a healthcare provider explaining why the accommodation is related to your disability are enough. The provider does not need to disclose your exact diagnosis, just the connection between your need and the accommodation.
Is my landlord allowed to deny my request?
Your landlord can only deny a request if it is not reasonable—meaning it causes significant hardship or fundamentally changes the property. Most simple changes, like an assistance animal, must be allowed unless there is a strong reason not to.
Can I be charged a pet deposit for an assistance or emotional support animal in Nevada?
No, under both federal and state law, landlords may not charge extra fees or deposits for assistance animals used as an accommodation for a disability.
How long does my landlord have to respond to my reasonable accommodation request?
There is no precise deadline, but landlords are required to respond promptly – usually within 10–15 days. If you do not get a response, you can escalate your request to the Nevada Equal Rights Commission.
Who can help me if my landlord denies or ignores my request?
You can file a housing discrimination complaint with the Nevada Equal Rights Commission, which will investigate and help resolve the issue. You may also seek additional support from legal aid services in Nevada.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

Nevada renters have a right to request reasonable accommodations for disabilities under state and federal law.
Document your request in writing and keep records for your protection.
If your landlord denies or ignores your request, you can seek help from the Nevada Equal Rights Commission.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Nevada Equal Rights Commission: Fair Housing — File a housing discrimination complaint or learn more about your rights.
U.S. Department of Justice: Fair Housing Act
HUD: File a Fair Housing Complaint Online
Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118 – Fair Housing