FAQ on Housing Rights

Yes. A change to the rules for your disability is called a reasonable accommodation. The change must help you to use and enjoy your home just like a person without disabilities. If you need something because of your disability, you can ask your landlord for an accommodation.

Examples of a reasonable accommodation

• Letting you have a service animal when there is a “No Pets” rule
• Giving you a closer parking space if you have trouble walking
• Allowing you to move to another unit that is easier for you to use

If your landlord doesn’t give you your request and your request is reasonable, it is called discrimination. This is not allowed.

Yes. A physical change to your home that you need for your disability is called a reasonable modification. If you ask for this change, you usually also have to pay for it.

Examples of reasonable modifications

• Putting in ramps
• Making a doorway wider
• Adding grab bars and a roll-in shower in a bathroom

You can ask your landlord for an accommodation or modification at any time. You should make your request in writing (email is OK) and keep a copy. Be sure to explain why you need this change for your disability.

See example letters

No. Not if your disability and disability-related need is obvious.

Here is an example:

• You are blind and are requesting an accommodation, a change to the “No Pet” rule for your guide dog. Your landlord cannot ask for more information.

Yes. If your disability isn’t obvious and your landlord doesn’t know you have it, they can ask you for proof.

• A disability determination from a federal, state, or local government agency;
• Receipt of disability benefits (SSI or SSDI);
• Eligibility for housing voucher because of disability;
• Information from a health care professional confirming disability.

Your landlord should never ask for your medical records or your diagnosis. They can only ask for proof that you have a disability.

Yes. If the reason for the accommodation or modification isn’t obvious. They need more information to understand why you need it.

Ask your provider to write a letter for you. The letter should to say why you need the accommodation or modification.

These are people you could ask to write the letter:

• • Doctor
  • Physical therapist
  • Social worker
  • Psychologist or psychiatrist

See example letters

Most of the time your landlord must grant your request. If they refuse, it is discrimination. But there are times when they can deny your request. If their answer is no, then they should work with you to find another solution that gives you what you need.

See some examples of when a request can or cannot be denied.

If your landlord waits too long to answer your request* or denies your request there are a few things you can do.

1. You can file a housing discrimination complaint or lawsuit in court. Read more about these options.
2. Contact DRNC to get help.
3. Contact the Fair Housing project of Legal Aid of NC: (855) 797-3247 or fairhousingnc.org.

*Providers have to respond to your request within a reasonable time. No more than ten days is a suggestion, but they may need longer depending on the circumstances of your request.