Are landlords required to provide reasonable accommodations for tenants with mental disabilities in accordance with Fair Housing Law?

Yes, landlords in California are required to provide reasonable accommodations for tenants with mental disabilities in accordance with Fair Housing Law. Fair Housing Law, which is enforced by HUD (the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development), does not only protect tenants from discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, and other protected classes, but also on the basis of mental disability. This means that if a tenant with a mental disability requests reasonable accommodations in order to live comfortably in their unit, the landlord must provide them if reasonable. Examples of reasonable accommodations that landlords must provide to tenants with mental disabilities include allowing a tenant to keep a service animal or make changes to the unit in order to accommodate the tenant’s disability. For example, a tenant with a mental disability may require a landlord to install extra handrails or make other modifications in order to ensure their safety. It is important for landlords to understand their obligation to provide reasonable accommodations for tenants with mental disabilities in order to comply with Fair Housing Law. If a landlord fails to provide reasonable accommodations or denies a tenant’s request for an accommodation, the tenant can file a complaint with HUD or take other legal action.

Related FAQs

What are the consequences of failing to comply with Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to reject tenants based on the number of occupants in their household under Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to advertise properties only to certain groups in violation of Fair Housing Law?
How does Fair Housing Law apply to disabled persons?
What legal recourse is available to tenants who have been discriminated against in violation of Fair Housing Law?
Do rental applicants have to meet certain criteria under Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords required to make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities under Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords required to post a notice of non-discrimination in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to advertise “no pets” policies in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Can a landlord discriminate against a potential tenant based on their source of income under Fair Housing Law?

Related Blog Posts

What is Fair Housing Law and How Does it Impact Home Ownership? - July 31, 2023
Understanding Your Rights Under Fair Housing Laws - August 7, 2023
Learn How to Protect Yourself from Housing Discrimination Under Fair Housing Law - August 14, 2023
What is Covered Under the Fair Housing Act and How Does it Affect Landlords? - August 21, 2023
Navigating the Complicated Rules and Regulations of Fair Housing Law - August 28, 2023