Can my landlord refuse to rent to me because of my disability?

No. Yukon law prohibits discrimination against tenants on the basis of disability.

Who pays for accessibility modifications in my rental?

Tenants typically pay for modifications, but financial support may be available through government grants. Landlords must allow reasonable changes unless it causes undue hardship.

What if my landlord denies my request for an accommodation?

You can file Form 1: Application to Director with the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office to resolve the issue.

Are service animals allowed in shared housing?

Yes. Landlords must allow service animals, even if a no-pets policy exists.

What if my roommates don’t agree with an accessibility change?

The law protects your right to reasonable accommodations. Communication is important, but accessibility needs must be met.

Accessibility Rights for Disabled Tenants in Yukon Shared Housing

Roommates & Shared Housing Yukon published June 13, 2025

Living with a disability shouldn’t mean having fewer rights as a tenant in Yukon, especially in shared housing or roommate situations. Understanding your accessibility rights can help you advocate for a safe and inclusive rental experience, while also ensuring landlords and co-tenants respect your needs under the law.

Accessibility and Disability Rights Under Yukon Law

Yukon's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act protects tenants with disabilities by prohibiting discrimination and ensuring reasonable accommodations are provided. Under this act, landlords must not refuse to rent to, or evict, someone based on disability. They are also required to allow accessibility modifications, as long as these do not cause undue hardship.

What Is a Disability Accommodation?

An accommodation is any change or adjustment to a rental unit or housing policy that makes it accessible for a person with a disability. This might include:

Installing grab bars or ramps
Permitting service animals in no-pet housing
Allowing visual or auditory alert systems
Flexible assignment of bedrooms or common spaces in roommate arrangements

Accommodations should be made unless they cause significant expense or difficulty for the landlord (called "undue hardship").

Roommates: What Happens in Shared Housing?

In shared rentals, every tenant has the right to an accessible environment. If you need adaptations within your private area, you can usually request these directly from the landlord. For common spaces, open communication is key—roommates should work together to find solutions that serve everyone's needs.

Requesting an Accommodation: Forms and Process

If you need an accommodation, start by making a written request to your landlord. Clearly outline what changes are required and (if possible) provide a supporting letter from a medical or support professional. You do not need to disclose your entire medical history—just enough information to explain your need for the modification.

If your landlord does not respond or denies your reasonable request, you may file an application with the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office.

Form Name: Application to Director (Form 1)
When Used: If your landlord refuses a reasonable accommodation or if you are experiencing discrimination related to your disability.
Download the Application to Director (Form 1)
Example: A tenant in a wheelchair shares a house and needs a hallway ramp. If the landlord refuses, the tenant may file this form to seek a ruling.

The Director will review the case and may order the landlord to provide the accommodation, unless doing so causes undue hardship.

Tip: Always keep records of any requests or communication you make with your landlord around accessibility. This helps protect your rights if a dispute arises.

Accessible Housing Responsibilities: Landlord and Tenant

Both landlords and tenants have responsibilities to maintain a safe, healthy, and inclusive rental property. For more about these shared duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Landlords must:
- Follow anti-discrimination laws
- Allow modifications at the tenant’s expense (unless extreme cost or structural issues create undue hardship)
- Maintain safe, habitable living conditions
Tenants must:
- Request accommodations in writing
- Restore the unit to its original condition (if required and reasonable) when moving out
- Respect house rules and shared spaces

Living with a disability shouldn’t mean living with unsafe or inaccessible conditions. Learn about your rights, speak clearly with your landlord, and seek help if you face barriers.

Health, Safety, and Accessibility

Maintaining a healthy and safe rental home benefits everyone, but for tenants with disabilities, accessibility is a major part of health and safety. Barrier-free entrances, working fire alarms suited for hearing impairments, and reliable elevators are examples of essential features. For more practical details on maintaining a safe rental, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

You can also apply for financial help to make your rental home accessible, including grants for modifications.

If you’re searching for barrier-free rentals or need a new place to better accommodate your accessibility needs, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme with helpful filters and accessible property options.

For a full overview of regional tenant protections, including accessibility, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my landlord refuse to rent to me because of my disability?
No. Yukon law specifically prohibits discrimination against tenants on the basis of disability.
Who pays for accessibility modifications in my rental?
Tenants usually pay for modifications unless covered by government grants. However, landlords must allow reasonable changes unless it causes undue hardship.
What if my roommates don’t agree with an accessibility change?
Essential accommodations must still be provided. Open discussion is best, but your rights are protected under the law.
What if my landlord denies my request for an accommodation?
You can file Form 1: Application to Director with the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office for help.
Are service animals allowed in shared housing?
Yes. Landlords must allow service animals even if there is a "no pets" policy.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

Tenants with disabilities in Yukon are protected by law and entitled to reasonable accommodations in shared housing.
Use written requests and official forms if you need help from the landlord or a ruling from the Tenancies Office.
Health, safety, and accessibility are shared responsibilities—don’t hesitate to seek support if you need it.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Yukon Residential Tenancies Office – primary body for rental disputes and tenancy support
Yukon Human Rights Commission – for discrimination or human rights complaints
Yukon Home Adaptations Program – grants and financial aid for accessibility improvements
For peer or legal advocacy, contact the Yukon Legal Services Society