Survivor Housing FAQ: How to Ask for a Reasonable Accommodation Because of Sexual Violence?
Survivors of sexual violence often have ongoing health issues or disabilities from sexual trauma. A tenant might need changes in their living arrangements to make it fair and equal for them. These changes are called reasonable accommodations.
Define the terms:
A reasonable accommodation is a change or exception to the rules, policy, or procedure that a person with disabilities can ask for.
Under the law, disability means that the person:
- Has a "physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more life activities"; or
- Has a record of having an impairment; or
- Is recognized as having an impairment.
Under fair housing laws, housing providers must consider these requests and find a work to find a solution that works for both parties.
What is the process?
While oral requests are allowed, written requests are better to avoid any potential misunderstandings.
- Show that the survivor has a disability, if it is not readily apparent.
- Survivors don't need to specify the medical condition. Instead, explain how the disability limits major life activities like seeing, hearing, walking, breathing, or caring for oneself.
- Landlords can ask for more information. Documentation like a note or call from the doctor can help.
- Explain the connection between the request and the disability-related need.
- Identify what works as a reasonable accommodation. It needs to be reasonable and necessary.
- Invite the landlord to communicate so that you understand all available options.
The above article provides information about legal issues but is not the same as legal advice. Legal advice is when a lawyer applies the law to your specific situation. The information in this article does not replace the advice or representation of a licensed attorney. Law Center for Better Housing cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information in this article and is not responsible for any consequences that may result from using it. You should consult with a licensed attorney to ensure the information in this article is appropriate for your specific situation. Using the information in this article does not create a relationship between Law Center for Better Housing and you as your attorney.