Requesting Reasonable Accommodation in Texas Rentals

If you are a Texas renter with a disability, you have important rights under state and federal law. Understanding how to request a reasonable accommodation can make daily life easier and ensure equal access to your rental home. This guide explains your rights, official processes, and where to get support in Texas.

Understanding Reasonable Accommodation

Reasonable accommodation means a landlord must make changes—such as allowing a service animal, installing grab bars, or approving a preferred parking space—so that a tenant with a disability can enjoy and use their home as others would. Under the federal Fair Housing Act and the Texas Fair Housing Act, landlords must consider accommodation requests unless doing so is too costly or fundamentally changes the business.

Your Rights as a Renter with a Disability in Texas

Texas law protects renters from discrimination in housing due to a disability. Reasonable accommodations must be allowed, unless granting them would pose an undue financial or administrative burden for the landlord. The relevant legislation is the Texas Fair Housing Act (Texas Property Code Chapter 301).^[1]

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation

Making a request doesn't have to be complicated, but taking certain steps and keeping written records can help avoid misunderstandings. Here are the key steps to follow:

• Contact your landlord or property manager in writing. Explain the accommodation you need, how it helps with your disability, and that you are requesting it as a reasonable accommodation under fair housing laws.
• If needed, include a note from a health care provider confirming your disability and need for the accommodation (but not detailed medical records).
• Keep copies of all correspondence for your own records.

Texas Reasonable Accommodation Request Form

While Texas does not mandate a single statewide form, many official agencies recommend using the Reasonable Accommodation Request Form from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA).

• Form Name: Reasonable Accommodation Request Form
• When to Use: Use this form when asking for a change such as installing a ramp, altering a lease rule, or having an assistance animal.
• How to Use: Fill out and submit the form to your landlord or property manager. For example, if you need a reserved parking spot closer to your unit because of mobility issues, describe this in the form and attach a supporting note from your doctor.
• Download the Reasonable Accommodation Request Form (PDF)

If Your Request Is Denied

If your landlord refuses the accommodation, you have the right to file a complaint.

• You may file with the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs Fair Housing Section or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
• The TDHCA complaint form is called the TDHCA Fair Housing Discrimination Complaint Form. Use it if you believe your rights have been violated. Access complaint form here.

Both agencies can help investigate your claim and, if necessary, mediate or enforce your rights under fair housing laws.

Who Enforces Renters’ Rights in Texas?

The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) Fair Housing Section oversees disability accommodation in rentals statewide. At the federal level, HUD's Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity is responsible for enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What counts as a reasonable accommodation in Texas? Reasonable accommodation refers to changes or exceptions to rules, policies, or services that help a person with a disability access and enjoy their housing, such as installing ramps, allowing service animals, or assigning accessible parking.
2. Can a landlord deny my request for accommodation? A landlord can only deny a request if accommodating would cause undue financial or administrative hardship, or if the request is unreasonable (for example, demanding major structural changes).
3. Do I need to use a specific form to request an accommodation? While Texas does not require a single standard form, using the TDHCA Reasonable Accommodation Request Form is advisable and helps ensure your request is clear and complete.
4. Will my landlord see my medical records? No. You may need to provide proof that you have a qualifying disability (often a doctor's note), but you do not need to disclose specific medical details.
5. How long does my landlord have to respond to my accommodation request? There is no exact timeline in Texas law, but landlords should respond promptly—typically within 10-15 days. If there is no response, consider following up in writing or contacting the TDHCA for assistance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) Fair Housing Section: Guidance, complaint forms, and direct assistance
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process: File a federal fair housing complaint
• Reasonable Accommodation Request Form (PDF)
• TDHCA Fair Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
• Texas Health and Human Services Disability Resources

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^[1] Texas Fair Housing Act (Property Code Chapter 301) | Federal Fair Housing Act

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