Requesting Reasonable Housing Accommodations in Newfoundland and Labrador

If you are a tenant in Newfoundland and Labrador and live with a mental health condition or disability, you have rights under the province’s rental laws and the Human Rights Act, 2010. You can ask your landlord for housing accommodations so you can safely and comfortably enjoy your home. This guide explains what reasonable accommodations are, how to request them, and what to do if you face difficulties.

What Are Reasonable Housing Accommodations?

Reasonable housing accommodations are changes or adjustments to your rental unit, building, or landlord’s policies that help you access and use your home on an equal basis. For example, these can include allowing a service animal despite a "no pets" policy, modifying smoke detectors for sensory needs, or flexible rent payment timing for those with recurring medical issues. Tenants must disclose enough information for the landlord to understand the need, but are not required to reveal full medical details.

Your Rights Under the Law

• Landlords are required, by the Human Rights Act, 2010 and the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018, to reasonably accommodate disabilities unless it would cause undue hardship.
• It is your right to ask for these accommodations at any time during your tenancy.
• Landlords cannot evict or penalize you for making a request in good faith.

Need to know more about your legal protections as a tenant here? See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador for a full overview.

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation

Making a request for reasonable accommodation is straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure your landlord responds appropriately:

• Write a Request: Prepare a written letter or email to your landlord. Clearly explain your request and why it is needed. Include a letter from a medical professional, if possible and you are comfortable doing so, to support your request.
• Include Details: Be specific about what changes you need, such as installing grab bars in the bathroom or permitting a support animal.
• Submit to Your Landlord: Keep a dated copy for your records. Your landlord should respond promptly and discuss possible solutions.

It is always best to communicate in writing so you have a record of your request. Many landlords will work with you to find a reasonable solution, but it helps to understand your rights and responsibilities in advance. See Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained to understand both parties' duties after the rental agreement is signed.

Sample Accommodation Request

Example: "I am requesting permission for an emotional support animal in my unit due to a mental health disability as supported by my doctor. Please let me know if you need more information or have concerns."

What If Your Request is Denied?

If your landlord refuses an accommodation or ignores your request, you have the right to file a formal complaint. In Newfoundland and Labrador, housing-related tenancy disputes are handled by the Residential Tenancies Section, Service NL. For discrimination-based accommodation denials, you may also contact the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission.

Forms You Might Need

• Tenant’s Application (Form RT – Complaint/Claim): Use this form to file a formal complaint about an accommodation denial, illegal eviction, or other rental issue. Download the official form here.
  Practical example: If your landlord refuses a reasonable adjustment for your mental health, submit this application to Service NL to start the dispute resolution process.

The Residential Tenancies Section will schedule a hearing after you submit the completed form. You may include any letters or medical documentation supporting your case.

Key Tenancy Legislation

• Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (Newfoundland and Labrador): Outlines landlord and tenant duties, lease rules, and dispute resolution.
• Human Rights Act, 2010: Prohibits housing discrimination, including on the basis of disability.

These laws provide the framework for your right to request and receive accommodations in your home.

Tips for a Successful Accommodation Request

• Make your request as early as possible
• Document all communications with your landlord
• Follow up in writing if you do not hear back
• Keep copies of all forms and correspondence

Remember: You are not asking for a favour—you are exercising your right to equal treatment under the law.

For more advice on living comfortably and staying safe in your rental, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of accommodations can I request for mental health reasons?
   Common requests include permission for a support animal, additional safety devices, changes to the lease rules (such as flexibility with visitors or quiet hours), or physical modifications to the unit.
2. Do I have to tell my landlord my specific diagnosis?
   No, you do not have to disclose your specific medical or mental health diagnosis. You only need to provide enough information for the landlord to understand the need for accommodation.
3. How long does my landlord have to respond to my accommodation request?
   While there is no fixed statutory timeline, landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador are expected to respond promptly and without unnecessary delay to good-faith accommodation requests.
4. What if my landlord ignores or denies my request?
   If your request is ignored or denied without a valid reason, you may file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Section at Service NL or contact the Human Rights Commission.
5. Can my landlord charge me extra for a reasonable accommodation?
   No, landlords cannot charge extra fees for making a reasonable accommodation. Minor damages caused by modifications must be repaired when you move out, unless agreed otherwise.

Conclusion

• Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador have clear rights to reasonable accommodations for mental health and disability needs.
• Requests should be made in writing, with just enough information to explain the need.
• If accommodation is denied, formal complaint avenues exist through Service NL and the Human Rights Commission.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Section, Service NL – Advice and dispute resolution: 1-877-829-2608
• Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission: 1-800-563-5808
• CMHC – Rental Housing Resources for Tenants
• Local tenant advocacy groups and legal clinics for personalized support

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (Newfoundland and Labrador): Read the legislation
2. Human Rights Act, 2010 (Newfoundland and Labrador): Read the act
3. Service NL: Residential Tenancies Section
4. Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission: Official site

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