Washington Renters: Who Pays for Accessibility Modifications?

Many Washington renters with disabilities require accessibility modifications—like ramps, grab bars, or wider doorways—to live safely and independently. Understanding who pays for these modifications can help you navigate conversations with your landlord and ensure your housing needs are met. This article explains your rights, responsibilities, and how to request disability accommodations under Washington law.

Your Rights to Accessibility in Washington Rentals

Federal and Washington State laws protect renters with disabilities. Most importantly, landlords must allow reasonable modifications—physical changes you need to fully use your home—if you have a disability.

• The federal Fair Housing Act requires landlords to permit reasonable modifications at the renter’s expense, with some exceptions.
• Under the Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act, similar protections apply to renters in the state.¹
• Washington’s Law Against Discrimination (WLAD) also offers protections. Landlords must allow modifications unless they would pose a significant burden or fundamentally alter the housing.²

Washington law covers most rental properties, but some smaller buildings or owner-occupied homes may be exempt.

Who Is Responsible for Costs?

In most cases, the renter pays for accessibility modifications. This includes materials and labor for changes such as:

• Installing grab bars in the bathroom
• Widening doorways for wheelchair access
• Lowering countertops
• Adding a wheelchair ramp

However, your landlord cannot refuse reasonable modifications if you agree to return the unit to its original condition when you move out (if reasonable). Sometimes, if the modifications would also benefit future tenants, the landlord may opt to share some costs, but this is not required by law.

How to Request Accessibility Modifications

To protect your rights, always make your accommodation request in writing. You should explain which modification you need and why it’s necessary.

• Provide supporting documentation: This could be a letter from your healthcare provider confirming your disability and the need for the modification.
• Outline who will pay: State clearly you will pay for the changes, unless local programs offer assistance.
• Discuss restoration: Landlords can require you to restore the property when you move out (if reasonable).

Official Request Forms and Documentation

While there is no single mandatory statewide form, using an official accommodation request form helps document your request. Consider using the Reasonable Accommodation Request Form offered by the Washington Human Rights Commission, although this is not required by law.

• Form Name: Reasonable Accommodation Request Form
• When to Use: When you need to formally request a modification or accommodation from your landlord due to a disability.
• How to File: Fill out the form and submit it to your landlord along with any supporting documents. Here's the official form: Reasonable Accommodation Request Form – Washington Human Rights Commission

If your landlord denies the request, you have the right to file a complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission or the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development.

What About Security Deposits and Restoration?

Landlords can require you to deposit extra funds in escrow to return the unit to its previous condition upon move-out, except for reasonable wear and tear or modifications that do not need to be removed. This policy must be reasonable and outlined in writing.

If Your Request is Denied

If a landlord denies a reasonable modification without good reason or refuses to negotiate, you can:

• File a complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission
• Contact the Washington State Housing Finance Commission for resources
• Consider mediation or seek legal support

The official tribunal for residential tenancies and disputes in Washington is your local county court; however, discrimination complaints are handled by the Washington State Human Rights Commission.

FAQ: Accessibility Modifications for Renters in Washington

1. Can my landlord refuse my modification request?
   Landlords can only refuse if the request is unreasonable or would fundamentally alter the property. They must explore alternative solutions if possible.
2. Who pays to restore my unit when I move out?
   In most situations, you as the renter would pay to restore the unit unless you and your landlord agree that the modifications can remain.
3. Is there help available to pay for modifications?
   Yes; some local agencies and nonprofits in Washington offer grants or loans for accessibility work. Check with the Human Rights Commission or your city government.
4. Should I get my landlord’s approval in writing?
   Yes! Always document the landlord’s permission and any agreements about payment or restoration before making modifications.
5. Do all Washington rentals have to allow modifications?
   Most rental units must comply, but small owner-occupied properties might be exempt from some requirements.

Key Takeaways for Washington Renters

• You have the right to request reasonable accessibility modifications, but usually must pay the costs.
• Always make accommodation requests in writing using the official Reasonable Accommodation Request Form when possible.
• If denied, you can seek help from the Washington State Human Rights Commission or local support organizations.

Knowing the process helps protect your rights and supports accessible living in Washington rentals.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington State Human Rights Commission Fair Housing — file discrimination complaints, get guidance, and access accommodation resources
• Washington State Housing Finance Commission — renter assistance, landlord-tenant education, and disability resources
• Washington State Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Information — state law overview, tenants’ rights, and complaint options
• Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act — official legislation text and summaries

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1. Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)
2. Washington Law Against Discrimination (RCW 49.60)

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