Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation as a Virginia Renter

As a renter in Virginia, you have important rights under state and federal law if you need a reasonable accommodation due to a disability. Understanding how to make your request, what your landlord must do, and where to find help can ensure your home is accessible and your rights are protected.

Understanding Reasonable Accommodation for Renters in Virginia

A reasonable accommodation is a change or exception to rules, policies, or practices so a person with a disability has equal opportunity to use and enjoy their rental home. Service animals, reserved parking, or additional time to move out during an eviction are common examples. Both the federal Fair Housing Act and Virginia Fair Housing Law protect your right to request these accommodations.^[1][2]

Who Qualifies for a Reasonable Accommodation?

• You must have a physical or mental disability that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
• Your request must be related to your disability.

Requests can be made for yourself or on behalf of a household member with a qualifying disability.

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation in Virginia

Following these steps helps protect your rights and ensures a documented process between you and your landlord or property manager.

• Request in Writing: Although you can request verbally, written requests create a clear record. There is no official Virginia state form required, but the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development provides a helpful Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Form.
• Include the Details: Clearly state that you are requesting a reasonable accommodation under the Fair Housing Act and Virginia Fair Housing Law. Describe the accommodation needed and explain how it relates to your disability (you do not have to disclose your diagnosis).
• Provide Documentation: Your landlord may request documentation (like a letter from a healthcare provider) verifying your disability and need for the accommodation. They cannot ask for your detailed medical records.
• Wait for a Response: Your landlord should respond promptly and must grant the request unless it imposes an "undue financial or administrative burden" or "fundamentally alters" the nature of housing services.^[2]
• Keep Copies: Always keep a copy of your request and any responses.

Example: Using the HUD Sample Form

• Form Name: Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Form
• Official Source: HUD
• When Used: If you need permission for an emotional support animal, you can fill out this sample form and submit it to your property manager to make your request clear and documented.

What If Your Request Is Denied?

If your landlord denies your request or does not respond, you can file a complaint with the Virginia Fair Housing Board or the federal U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Both can investigate and enforce your rights under the law.

How the Virginia Fair Housing Board Can Help

• Virginia Fair Housing Board: Handles complaints about discrimination, including failure to grant reasonable accommodations.
  Virginia Fair Housing Complaint Process
• Relevant Legislation: Virginia Fair Housing Law

Before filing, try to resolve the issue directly with your landlord if possible, and be sure to keep all correspondence as evidence.

FAQ: Reasonable Accommodation for Virginia Renters

1. What qualifies as a disability for a reasonable accommodation in Virginia?
   A disability can be a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as walking, seeing, hearing, or caring for oneself.
2. Can my landlord deny my request for a reasonable accommodation?
   A landlord can only deny your request if it would pose an undue financial or administrative burden or fundamentally change the nature of their business.
3. Is there an official Virginia form to request a reasonable accommodation?
   No, there is not an official Virginia-specific form. However, you can use the HUD sample form or write a clear letter to your landlord explaining your request.
4. Do I have to disclose my specific medical diagnosis?
   No, you are not required to share your diagnosis—only documentation that shows you have a qualifying disability, and that the accommodation is necessary.
5. Who do I contact if my request is ignored or denied?
   You can file a complaint with the Virginia Fair Housing Board or with HUD for investigation and enforcement of your rights.

Key Takeaways for Renters in Virginia

• You have the protected right to request reasonable accommodations from your landlord.
• Put your request in writing, provide simple documentation, and save all communications.
• For unresolved issues, contact the Virginia Fair Housing Board for support.

By acting thoughtfully, you can help ensure your home meets your accessibility needs and legal protections.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Virginia Fair Housing Board – Main resource for complaint filing, information, and tenant rights.
• HUD: Reasonable Accommodations Overview – Federal guidelines and sample forms.
• Read the Virginia Fair Housing Law (Code of Virginia, Title 36, Chapter 9)
• Virginia Tenant Fair Housing Brochure (PDF)

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1. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Reasonable Accommodations
2. Virginia Fair Housing Law
3. Virginia Fair Housing Board Complaint Process

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