Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation as a Renter in North Carolina

North Carolina renters with disabilities have the right to request reasonable accommodations so they can fully use and enjoy their rental home. Whether you need a modified lease term, accessible features, or permission for a service animal, state and federal laws protect you. Understanding how to make a formal request can help ensure your needs are considered and your rights respected.

Understanding Your Rights as a Renter with a Disability

North Carolina law works alongside the federal Fair Housing Act and the state's North Carolina Fair Housing Act. Landlords must provide “reasonable accommodations” for renters with disabilities. This means changing policies, procedures, or services when necessary—unless it causes an undue financial or administrative burden for the landlord, or fundamentally alters their business.

What Counts as a Reasonable Accommodation?

Reasonable accommodations are changes that help renters with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities. Examples include:

• Allowing a service or assistance animal even if there’s a "no pets" policy
• Permitting rental payments on a different day if needed due to disability income timing
• Granting a reserved parking space closer to your unit
• Mailing notices in large print for a visually impaired renter

Landlords may ask for documentation confirming your disability if it’s not obvious, but they cannot request full medical records.

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation in North Carolina

To protect your rights and keep things clear, it’s best to make your request in writing, even though the law does not require this. Written documentation ensures a record of your request and the landlord’s response.

Step 1: Write a Formal Request

• Include your name, unit number, and contact information.
• Clearly explain you have a disability and describe the accommodation you need.
• Explain why the accommodation helps you use and enjoy your home.
• Attach relevant documentation from a healthcare or support professional if appropriate.

Step 2: Submit Your Request to the Landlord or Property Manager

• Deliver your request by mail, email, or in person.
• Keep copies of everything you submit and any written responses.

Step 3: What Happens Next?

• Your landlord must respond promptly and cannot refuse a reasonable request without discussing possible alternatives.
• If your request is denied, or you believe you were discriminated against, you may file a complaint with the North Carolina Human Relations Commission or the federal government.

Official Forms for Reasonable Accommodation Requests

While North Carolina has no mandatory statewide form, renters may use the following resource:

• NC Human Relations Commission Fair Housing Complaint Intake Form
  NC Fair Housing Complaint Intake Form (PDF)
  Use this form to file a complaint if your reasonable accommodation request was denied or ignored. Submit it to the North Carolina Human Relations Commission for investigation.

If you wish to file under federal law, use the HUD Discrimination Complaint Form for online submission to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The Tribunal Handling Tenancy Disputes

In North Carolina, residential tenancy cases are handled by the North Carolina Judicial Branch (local District Court, Small Claims division). Fair housing complaints can also be reviewed by the NC Human Relations Commission.

What If My Request Is Denied?

If your landlord denies your accommodation without valid reason, you can:

• Appeal in writing and propose alternative accommodations
• File a formal fair housing complaint
• Seek mediation or legal aid

The law prohibits retaliation against you for exercising your rights. Learn more from the HUD Reasonable Accommodation Guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need to fill out a specific form to request a reasonable accommodation in North Carolina?
   No, there is no required state form for requests. You can write a letter to your landlord. However, if your request is denied, you may use the NC Fair Housing Complaint Intake Form to file a complaint.
2. Can my landlord ask for proof of my disability?
   Landlords may ask for documentation if your disability or need for the accommodation is not obvious, but they cannot ask for medical records or invasive details.
3. What should I do if my landlord ignores my request?
   If you receive no reply, follow up in writing and keep records. If ignored again, you can file a complaint with the NC Human Relations Commission or HUD.
4. How long does my landlord have to respond?
   There is no set time, but fair housing law requires a prompt response. A reasonable period is typically 10–14 days.
5. Are landlords required to pay for physical changes to the unit?
   In most cases, renters pay for physical modifications, but landlords must permit modifications if they are reasonable. Common areas must be accessible at the landlord’s expense.

Conclusion: What Renters Should Remember

• Always make your reasonable accommodation request in writing and keep copies.
• You have the right to an equal housing opportunity, as protected by North Carolina and federal law.
• If you are denied or ignored, you can file a complaint with state or federal agencies.

Knowing and asserting your rights can help ensure your home is accessible and welcoming, no matter your disability status.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• NC Human Relations Commission Fair Housing – File complaints or get information
• U.S. Department of Justice: Fair Housing Act
• HUD Reasonable Accommodation & Modifications Page
• Legal Aid of North Carolina – Free legal help for eligible renters

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1. North Carolina Fair Housing Act – Chapter 41A
2. Federal Fair Housing Act, 42 U.S.C. § 3601 et seq.
3. NC Human Relations Commission – Fair Housing Overview
4. North Carolina Judicial Branch – District Court Information
5. HUD Online Housing Discrimination Complaint Form

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