Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation as a Renter in Tennessee

If you’re a renter in Tennessee with a disability, you have rights under state and federal law to request reasonable accommodations from your landlord. Whether you need a service animal, a parking adjustment, or a change to your rental unit, understanding the request process can help you maintain safe, accessible housing. This article guides you through your legal protections, how to ask for an accommodation, and what to do if your request is denied.

Understanding Reasonable Accommodation in Tennessee Rentals

A reasonable accommodation is a change in rules, policies, procedures, or services that allows a person with a disability to have equal access and enjoyment of their home. Under the federal Fair Housing Act and the Tennessee Human Rights Act, landlords must consider requests for reasonable accommodations unless it would be an undue financial or administrative burden or fundamentally alter the landlord’s business operations.^[1]

Examples of Reasonable Accommodation

• Allowing a service animal in a no-pet apartment
• Reserving an accessible parking spot close to your unit
• Adjusting the rent due date to align with disability benefits
• Permitting a transfer to a ground-floor unit

Accommodations should help you use and enjoy your rental the same as other tenants.

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation in Tennessee

You do not need to use special language or a specific form, but written requests are recommended for documentation. Clearly state what change you’re requesting, why you need it, and provide documentation if your disability is not obvious.

Official Forms and Examples

Tennessee does not have a state-mandated reasonable accommodation form. However, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers guidance. You can use a sample letter like the HUD Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter for your landlord. In your request:

• Include your name, address, and date
• Describe the accommodation you need (e.g., permission for a service animal)
• Explain it relates to your disability (without sharing your diagnosis)
• Attach a letter from a health or social services provider if needed

Example: You have mobility impairments and request an assigned parking space near your unit. Provide your written request and, if your need isn’t obvious, add a note from your doctor.

Where and How to Submit

• Deliver your request to your landlord or property manager
• Keep a copy for your records
• If in public housing, also submit to the local housing authority

If Your Request Is Denied

If the landlord unreasonably denies your accommodation, you can file a discrimination complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development or the Tennessee Human Rights Commission (THRC).

• HUD Form 903 Online Complaint
  Use the HUD Discrimination Complaint Portal to file if your request is denied.
  Example: After a denied request for grab bars, you file HUD Form 903 online to start an official investigation.
• THRC Fair Housing Complaint Intake Form
  Accessible from the official THRC website. Use when you believe your fair housing rights were violated in Tennessee.
  Example: A property manager refuses your accommodation and you complete the THRC form to seek state help.

Tip: Always keep copies of any requests, responses, and supporting documents. If you make your request in person, follow up with a dated written summary.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes?

In Tennessee, the Tennessee Human Rights Commission (THRC) investigates disability discrimination related to rentals. For general landlord-tenant disputes, county General Sessions Courts handle eviction and other tenancy issues. Learn more at the Tennessee General Sessions Courts website.

Relevant State Legislation and Protections

• Tennessee Human Rights Act (§ 4-21-601 et seq.)
• Tennessee Fair Housing Act (§ 4-21-601 et seq.)
• Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (§ 66-28-101 et seq.)

These laws protect you from discrimination and outline the responsibilities of both landlords and tenants.^[2]

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord ask for proof of my disability?
   Landlords can ask for documentation only if your disability or your need for the accommodation is not obvious. They may request a note from a healthcare provider, but cannot require detailed medical records.
2. Are service animals covered as a reasonable accommodation?
   Yes, allowing a service animal—even in a no-pets property—is a common reasonable accommodation recognized under Tennessee and federal law.
3. What if my landlord ignores my request?
   If you do not get a timely response, send a follow-up request in writing. If you’re ignored or denied without a valid reason, contact the Tennessee Human Rights Commission or file a HUD complaint.
4. Can a landlord increase the rent because of my accommodation request?
   No, landlords cannot charge extra or raise your rent simply because you asked for or use a reasonable accommodation.
5. How long does a landlord have to respond?
   There is no fixed legal deadline, but landlords should respond promptly—usually within 10-14 days. Unreasonable delay can count as a denial.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tennessee Human Rights Commission (THRC): Investigates housing discrimination complaints (file a fair housing complaint online).
• HUD Tennessee Rental Assistance Resources: Information and resources for tenants seeking support or filing a fair housing complaint.
• Tennessee General Sessions Courts: Handles landlord-tenant disputes statewide.
• Tennessee Fair Housing Information: Key details about renter protections and your rights.

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1. [1] See the Fair Housing Act overview and Tennessee Human Rights Commission Fair Housing Guide.
2. [2] Tennessee Human Rights Act and Fair Housing Act § 4-21-601 et seq.; Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act § 66-28-101 et seq.

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