Navigating Reasonable Accommodation Requests

A practical guide for Washington housing providers 

Start with a conversation. Identify the requested change, understand the disability-related need, and evaluate a workable response. Review each request individually and document your decisions. 

Understand what is being requested 

An accommodation changes a rule, policy, practice, or service so a person with a disability can use and enjoy housing. Examples include reserved parking, an assistance animal, or a disability-related transfer. A modification is a physical change, such as a grab bar or ramp; approval and payment rules differ. The Fair Housing Act and Washington law govern residential housing; additional ADA or Section 504 requirements may apply. 

1 Recognize and acknowledge the request 

Accept verbal, emailed, written, or informal requests, including requests made by someone on the resident’s behalf. No special wording or mandatory form is required. Record the date, requested change, and any urgent need. Respond promptly; unnecessary delay can amount to a denial. Acknowledging receipt of the accommodation request, and letting them know that you will evaluate and respond to it, is not the same thing as granting the request. 

2 Clarify the change and its connection to the disability 

Ask what change is needed and how it addresses a disability-related barrier to using or enjoying the home. A disability disclosure alone may not identify an accommodation; help clarify rather than close the matter. Separate repair needs, neighbor complaints, and unrelated demands, while continuing to evaluate the accommodation request. 

3 Request only information that is needed 

If the existence of the disability is not obvious or is unclear, request verification from the tenant's licensed care provider that a disability exists.  A verification of disability from a medical care provider does not have to include a medical diagnosis or treatment information. If either is unclear, seek reliable information only about that missing element. Verification need not come exclusively from a physician. Generally, do not seek a diagnosis, complete medical records, or treatment history. Keep disability information confidential and limit access to those who need it. 

4 Evaluate reasonableness and discuss alternatives 

Consider whether the change is necessary and effective, available options, actual costs, and property operations. An undue financial or administrative burden or fundamental alteration requires an individualized assessment. Safety concerns require objective evidence and consideration of whether an accommodation reduces the risk. If the proposed change cannot reasonably be provided, discuss effective alternatives and consult counsel before denial. An earlier accommodation does not automatically resolve a new request. 

5 Give a clear response and follow through 

Address each requested item separately. For approval, state what will be provided, who will arrange it, and the anticipated timing. For missing information, explain exactly what is needed and set a follow-up date. Before denying any item, have counsel review the reasons and alternatives. Preserve communications, work orders, offers, and implementation records; reassess if the accommodation proves ineffective. 

Situations that need special care 

Do not charge a fee or extra deposit as a condition of an accommodation; approved assistance animals are not pets. Evaluate fee waivers, transfers, and early lease termination individually with counsel rather than rejecting them simply as financial requests. Physical modifications are generally resident-funded under the FHA, but other laws or programs may require owner payment. Investigate actual noise or lease violations; a request alone does not establish another resident’s violation. Seek legal advice when a request seems to demand that the owner take legal action or enforce the lease terms against another tenant.  

A useful first response. 

“Thank you for letting us know. We will review your request. Please clarify the change you need and, if it is not already clear, how it relates to your disability-related housing needs. We will request only necessary information and discuss available options with you.” 

Informational only, not legal advice. Consult your attorney about the specific facts and applicable law.

Prepared by Jim Henderson and David Britton October 2026.