Requesting Reasonable Accommodation as a Renter in New Jersey

If you're a renter in New Jersey with a disability, you have important rights under state and federal law. One key protection is the right to request a reasonable accommodation—changes your landlord can make to policies, procedures, or the rental property to allow you equal use and enjoyment of your home. This guide explains what counts as a reasonable accommodation, how to ask for one, and where to get help if you encounter challenges or discrimination.

Understanding Reasonable Accommodation

A reasonable accommodation is a change that helps a person with a disability enjoy their home as much as anyone else. Examples include allowing a service animal despite a "no pets" policy, assigning an accessible parking spot, or approving installation of a wheelchair ramp.

• Your landlord must provide an accommodation unless it causes undue financial or administrative hardship, or fundamentally changes the nature of the housing.
• Both New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD) and the federal Fair Housing Act guarantee these rights.

Landlords aren’t allowed to ask intrusive questions about your disability, but they may need basic documentation if your need isn’t obvious.

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation

Making the request doesn’t have to be complicated—but putting it in writing is a good way to document your needs. You do not need to use specific language. If your request is disability related, your landlord must consider it.

• Write a letter or use an official request form (see below for the NJ Division on Civil Rights sample letter).
• Briefly describe your disability-related need and the accommodation you’re requesting.
• If your disability or need is not obvious, include a note from a healthcare provider.
• Keep a copy for your records.

Official Form for Reasonable Accommodation Requests

The Sample Request for Reasonable Accommodation Letter (from New Jersey Division on Civil Rights) can be used to make a written request. This is not a mandatory form, but it helps organize your request in the most effective way.

• When to use: Use this letter whenever you want to request a policy, practice, or physical accommodation due to disability.
• How to use: Fill in your information, specify the accommodation, and provide relevant documentation. Give it to your landlord or property manager. For example: If you need a support animal, include a brief note from your healthcare provider explaining the need.
• Official source: Sample Letter - New Jersey Division on Civil Rights

What Happens After You Submit Your Request?

Your landlord must consider your request promptly and engage in an interactive process if they need more information. They can only deny your request for specific legal reasons, such as a substantial burden or fundamental alteration to the property.

• If your request is denied, you should receive a clear, written explanation.
• You may appeal, negotiate, or file a complaint with the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) or the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

If you believe you are being discriminated against, you can file a formal complaint.

How to File a Discrimination Complaint

• File online or by mail with the NJ Division on Civil Rights.
• Use the form: DCR Discrimination Complaint Intake Form (no number; PDF).
• Example: If your landlord refuses to approve a needed wheelchair ramp after you provide documentation, submit this form and attach supporting materials.
• Federal complaints can be filed with HUD's online portal.

Your Legal Rights and Protections

New Jersey renters are protected by the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD) and the federal Fair Housing Act. Landlords cannot retaliate against you for requesting or enforcing your rights.

• Accommodations are available regardless of the size of the building or the number of units.
• You remain responsible for rent and meeting other tenancy obligations.
• Physical changes ("reasonable modifications") follow similar—but slightly different—rules. Learn more about reasonable modifications.

FAQ: Reasonable Accommodation in New Jersey Rentals

1. Do I have to disclose my specific disability to my landlord?
   No, you do not have to disclose your diagnosis. If your need is not obvious, you may be required to provide basic documentation from a qualified professional confirming your need for an accommodation.
2. Can my landlord charge me fees for a reasonable accommodation?
   No, a landlord cannot charge additional fees or deposits for granting a reasonable accommodation, such as approving a service animal or accessible parking space.
3. How long does my landlord have to respond to my request?
   Landlords must respond "promptly" after receiving your accommodation request. There is no fixed deadline in New Jersey law, but most cases require a timely reply.
4. What if my landlord refuses my request?
   If you believe your request was unfairly denied, file a complaint with the NJ Division on Civil Rights or HUD. Provide copies of your request, landlord’s reply, and any supporting documents.
5. Can I be evicted for asking for an accommodation?
   No, retaliation—including eviction—for requesting a reasonable accommodation is prohibited by law in New Jersey.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• You can request reasonable accommodations in writing using the NJ DCR sample letter or your own words.
• Landlords must respond in good faith and cannot charge for accommodations.
• If denied or ignored, file a complaint with New Jersey DCR or HUD for further investigation.

These steps empower you to protect your rental rights while ensuring your housing remains accessible.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) — Main authority for discrimination, reasonable accommodation, and tenant complaints. File a complaint online or by mail.
• NJ Department of Community Affairs – Landlord-Tenant Information — Laws, guides, and tenant protections.
• U.S. Department of Justice – Fair Housing Act — Federal overview of housing rights and complaint process.
• Legal Services of New Jersey — Free and low-cost legal help for tenants statewide.

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1. New Jersey Division on Civil Rights: Reasonable Accommodations under NJ Law Against Discrimination
2. Sample Request for Reasonable Accommodation Letter – New Jersey
3. NJ Division on Civil Rights: Filing a Complaint
4. New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD) Fact Sheet
5. U.S. Fair Housing Act – Justice Department

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