If you need a formal way to ask your landlord for an accommodation related to mental health or a disability, these letter templates and practical tips are written for tenants in the Northwest Territories. Use the samples to clearly describe the changes you need, attach supporting documents where appropriate, and follow steps to file or negotiate with your landlord. This guide explains what to include in a request, how to propose reasonable adjustments, when to use official forms or contact the Residential Tenancies Office[1], and how to keep records of communications so your rights and needs are clear.
What to include in an accommodation request
- Tenant name, unit address and contact details so your landlord can identify your tenancy.
- A short explanation of the functional limitation (for example, a mental health condition) and how it affects your housing needs.
- Clearly state the accommodation you are requesting (e.g., an emotional support animal, a grab bar, a changed payment date) and why it will help.
- List supporting documents you can provide, such as a note from a health professional or other medical records.
- Include a reasonable timeline for the landlord to respond and any dates that are important to you.
- Close with a suggested next step, such as a meeting or preferred method of contact to discuss the request.
Sample templates
Template 1 — Short formal request
Dear [Landlord name],
I am a tenant at [address] and I am writing to request a reasonable accommodation under my tenancy. I have a diagnosed mental health condition that affects [brief description]. I am requesting [specific accommodation requested]. I can provide documentation from my health care provider upon request. Please let me know a convenient time to discuss this by [date]. Thank you for considering this request.
Sincerely,
[Your name] — [phone/email]
Template 2 — Detailed request with proposed solution
Dear [Landlord name],
I am requesting an accommodation that would assist me in maintaining my tenancy at [address]. My condition [briefly describe how condition affects tenancy]. The accommodation I propose is [describe change] because it will [explain benefit]. I suggest the following reasonable adjustments: [list practical steps]. I have attached a supporting letter from my health professional. I am available to discuss a time-limited trial of this change and to meet to agree on reasonable arrangements. Please respond by [date].
Thank you,
[Your name] — [contact]
How to follow up and, if needed, file a complaint
Start by sending the request by email or registered mail and keep copies of everything. If the landlord does not respond or refuses without discussing alternatives, you can contact the Residential Tenancies Office for information about protections and possible next steps[1]. If a formal application is required to resolve a dispute, the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)[2] sets out the rules and the types of decisions the office can make. Many tenants use an official complaint or application form to start the process; see the NWT forms for details and submission instructions[3].
Negotiation tips
- Offer reasonable alternatives if the landlord raises concerns about cost or logistics.
- Keep medical details limited to what is necessary; you do not need to disclose full medical records.
- Agree on a timeline for the change and document any trial periods in writing.
FAQ
- Can my landlord refuse an accommodation request?
- Landlords must consider reasonable accommodations, but they can refuse requests that would cause undue hardship; discuss alternatives and document the discussion.
- Do I have to provide medical proof?
- Landlords can ask for documentation that shows a need for the accommodation, but they should not require excessive medical details beyond what is needed to support the request.
- What if my landlord retaliates after I request accommodation?
- Retaliation is typically prohibited; keep records of any negative actions and contact the Residential Tenancies Office for advice on next steps.
How-To
- Gather supporting documents such as a brief note from a health professional describing the need and how the accommodation helps.
- Draft your accommodation request using one of the templates above; be specific about the change and proposed timeline.
- Send the request by email and keep a dated copy; if possible, follow up by phone to confirm receipt.
- Negotiate reasonable alternatives if needed and confirm any agreement in writing.
- If you cannot resolve the issue, file an application or complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office using the official form and timelines[3].
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Office
- Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)
- NWT Residential Tenancies forms and guides
