Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation as a Renter in Washington

If you are a renter in Washington living with a disability, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation from your landlord to ensure your housing is accessible. Understanding how to make a formal request, what to include, and which forms to use ensures your needs are heard and protected under the law.

Understanding Reasonable Accommodation in Washington

A reasonable accommodation is a change or exception to a housing policy, rule, or practice that allows a person with a disability equal opportunity to use and enjoy their home. This could include things like allowing a service animal in a no-pet building, installing grab bars in a bathroom, or providing a reserved parking space close to the building’s entrance.

• Disability is defined by state and federal law as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
• Landlords must make reasonable accommodations for renters with disabilities, unless doing so would cause an undue financial or administrative burden, or fundamentally alter the nature of the housing services offered.

Your Legal Rights as a Renter

Washington renters are protected under federal laws like the Fair Housing Act and state legislation: the Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18) and the Washington Law Against Discrimination (RCW 49.60). These laws prohibit housing discrimination based on disability and require landlords to consider reasonable requests from tenants.

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation

Making your request in writing, while not always legally required, is strongly recommended for documentation and clarity. Here’s how Washington renters can proceed:

Recommended Form: Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter

Washington does not have a mandatory statewide form. However, agencies like the Washington State Human Rights Commission provide a Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter (PDF). While not an official required form, this template helps renters outline their needs clearly.

• When to use: When you need a policy change, modification to your apartment, or an exception due to a disability.
• How to use: Fill in your specific information, describe your disability (if comfortable—medical details are not required), state the accommodation needed, and send to your landlord or property manager.
• Get the Sample Request Letter here.

Supporting Documentation

Your landlord can request reasonable proof of disability and need for the accommodation, especially if the need is not obvious. This usually comes in the form of a letter from a healthcare or social service provider. If your need is clear (for example, a wheelchair user requesting a ramp), no further documentation should be required.

What Happens After You Submit Your Request?

After you submit your reasonable accommodation request, your landlord must respond in a timely manner. They may discuss your needs further or request supporting documentation if appropriate. It is illegal for your landlord to retaliate against you, deny housing, or charge extra fees just because you asked for an accommodation.

What If Your Request Is Denied?

If your landlord denies your request, you have the right to file a complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission or with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Both agencies can investigate potential housing discrimination.

• How to file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission
• HUD’s online complaint portal

Relevant Washington Tribunal or Board

Reasonable accommodation housing complaints in Washington are handled by the Washington State Human Rights Commission. Disputes involving lease terms can also be addressed in local district or municipal courts.

Overview of Key Steps

• Identify your accommodation need as it relates to your disability.
• Use a written Sample Request Letter or craft your own.
• Provide supporting documentation if the disability or need is not obvious.
• Submit your request to your landlord or property manager in writing and keep copies.
• Follow up if you do not receive a timely response.
• Know your rights if your request is denied or ignored.

FAQ: Reasonable Accommodation for Washington Renters

1. Do I need to disclose my exact disability to request an accommodation?
   No. You only need to explain that you have a disability under the law and how the requested accommodation will help you use or enjoy your home. Medical diagnoses or detailed information are generally not required.
2. Can my landlord deny my request?
   Yes, but only if the request is unreasonable—such as causing major financial/administrative hardship—or if it would fundamentally alter housing operations. Most common modifications are considered reasonable.
3. Is my landlord allowed to charge me extra?
   No, it's illegal for landlords to impose extra fees or deposits for providing a reasonable accommodation, including for service or assistance animals.
4. How long should it take for the landlord to respond?
   There are no exact deadlines, but landlords must respond promptly. Unreasonably long delays could be viewed as discrimination.
5. Where do I go if my landlord refuses or retaliates?
   File a complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission or HUD if you suspect discrimination or retaliation.

Key Takeaways for Renters Seeking Accommodation

• Washington law protects renters with disabilities and supports reasonable accommodations.
• Document your requests and communications in writing.
• State agencies can help if your rights are denied.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington State Human Rights Commission – Information and complaint filing
• Washington Law Help: Reasonable Accommodation
• HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity
• Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act
• Local legal aid: Northwest Justice Project (Tenant help line and resources)

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1. Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)
2. Washington Law Against Discrimination (RCW 49.60)
3. Federal Fair Housing Act
4. Washington State Human Rights Commission – Fair Housing

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