Do landlords in Utah have to accept reasonable accommodation requests from seniors?

Yes. Landlords must grant reasonable accommodation requests for seniors with disabilities, unless it would cause significant hardship for the landlord.

What should I do if I face housing discrimination because of my age?

File a complaint with the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division using their official form. Federal resources are also available through HUD.

Are rent increases limited for senior renters in Utah?

Utah does not have rent control, but rent increases require at least 15 days' written notice and cannot be based on age or disability.

How can I request repairs in a senior apartment?

Request repairs in writing using Utah Courts’ forms. If no action is taken, contact Utah Legal Services for help.

Utah Senior Housing Rights: Protections and Resources for Renters

Q: Which agency helps with eviction problems for seniors?

The Utah State Courts handle eviction cases, while the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division addresses discrimination and fair housing issues.

Special Housing Types & Situations Utah published June 21, 2025

Senior renters in Utah have unique rights and legal protections to ensure safe, fair, and dignified housing. This article explains key laws, forms, and agencies that support older adults in Utah's rental housing market.

Who Is Covered by Senior Housing Protections in Utah?

Senior housing protections apply to renters aged 55 and older seeking housing specifically designed or designated for older adults. These rights are outlined at both federal and state levels, including specialized fair housing standards and anti-discrimination laws.

55+ Housing: Communities generally must comply with regulations under the federal Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA).
62+ Housing: Additional protections may exist for "62 and older" housing communities.

Utah extends these protections under its Utah Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to deny or discriminate in housing based on age, disability, or family status^[1].

Main Protections for Seniors Renting in Utah

Protection from Discrimination: Landlords cannot reject, evict, or set different terms for senior renters based on age or disabilities.
Reasonable Accommodations: If you have a disability, landlords must allow reasonable modifications, such as grab bars or wheelchair ramps, unless it causes significant hardship for the property.
Right to Safe and Decent Housing: Landlords must maintain units in a habitable and safe condition under state law.
Restrictions on Eviction: Seniors in subsidized or designated senior housing have eviction protections, including proper notice and cause for removal as detailed in the Utah Fit Premises Act^[2].

Required Forms and How to Use Them

Utah Fair Housing Complaint Form
When to use: If you believe you've faced discrimination due to age or disability, use this form to file a complaint with the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division.
Official Utah Fair Housing Complaint Form
Example: A senior renter is denied a lease renewal after requesting a wheelchair ramp. They can submit this form online or mail it in to start an investigation.
Request for Reasonable Accommodation Form (sample only—may be requested in writing or via provider's template)
When to use: Ask your landlord, property manager, or housing authority for reasonable changes due to a disability.
Sample HUD Reasonable Accommodation Request
Example: An older tenant with vision loss requests better stair lighting in their unit by submitting this written request to the landlord.

Which Utah Board Handles Tenant Complaints?

For discrimination cases, the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division (UALD) investigates and enforces housing law. For rental disputes, use the Utah State Courts system. There is no dedicated residential tenancy tribunal in Utah—court filings go to Utah Courts—Landlord & Tenant.

Your Rights Regarding Rent, Eviction, and Maintenance

Seniors have the same tenant rights as any adult renter, plus some enhanced protections in age-restricted or government-assisted senior housing.

Rent increases require advance written notice (typically 15 days in Utah)
"Just cause" is needed for eviction in most subsidized or specialized senior housing
Repair or safety requests should be made in writing—use Utah Courts' repair request forms when needed
- Utah Landlord-Tenant Forms

Tip: If you receive an eviction notice or have an urgent repair need, seek help quickly from both a legal aid office and the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division if discrimination is involved.

Legislation Protecting Senior Tenants in Utah

Utah Fair Housing Act: Prevents housing discrimination based on age, disability, or family status
Utah Fit Premises Act: Sets out landlord obligations for property maintenance and eviction rules
Utah Unlawful Detainer Statute: Covers the eviction process

These laws outline how your landlord must treat you and what steps you can take when issues arise.

FAQs: Utah Senior Renter Rights

Do landlords in Utah have to accept reasonable accommodation requests from seniors?
Yes. Under both federal law and the Utah Fair Housing Act, landlords must accept reasonable accommodation requests for seniors with disabilities, as long as they do not cause significant hardship.
What should I do if I face housing discrimination because of my age?
You should file a complaint with the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division using their official form. If you are in federally-supported housing, you may also contact HUD.
Are rent increases limited for senior renters in Utah?
Utah does not have statewide rent control laws, but landlords must provide advance written notice (typically 15 days) before increasing rent, and cannot raise rent for discriminatory reasons.
Which court or agency helps with eviction problems for seniors?
Eviction cases are handled by the Utah State Courts—Landlord & Tenant. Discrimination issues go to the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division.
How can I request repairs in a senior apartment?
Write to your landlord using Utah Courts’ repair request forms. If issues continue, you can seek help from Utah Legal Services.

Key Takeaways for Senior Renters in Utah

Senior renters are protected from age and disability discrimination under both federal and Utah law.
Official complaint forms and reasonable accommodation requests are available and should be used if needed.
For disputes, contact the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division or use Utah State Courts.

Staying aware of your rights helps you advocate for safe and fair housing.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division (UALD) — File discrimination or accommodation complaints
Utah Courts—Landlord & Tenant — Access official forms and get court information for rental disputes or eviction issues
Utah Legal Services — Free or low-cost legal help for seniors and renters
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Fair Housing — Federal resources for fair housing rights
Utah Department of Aging and Adult Services — Referrals and support for seniors

Utah Fair Housing Act, Title 57, Chapter 21. Full text.
Utah Fit Premises Act, Title 57, Chapter 22. See official legislation.