Requesting Reasonable Housing Accommodations in Yukon

If you are a renter in Yukon coping with a mental health challenge or disability, you may be entitled to reasonable housing accommodations under provincial law. This guide explains how you can make these requests, what your rights are, and how to work cooperatively with your landlord.

Your Right to Housing Accommodations in Yukon

Under the Yukon Human Rights Act, all tenants have the right to be free from discrimination based on mental or physical disability. This means landlords must consider reasonable requests for alterations or exceptions—known as accommodations—if you need them to access, use, or maintain your rental home.

Common accommodation requests include:

• Permission for a support animal in a 'no pets' building
• Time extensions for rent payments or paperwork due to medical treatment
• Physical modifications, like grab bars or ramps, to improve accessibility
• Exceptions to guest policies for support workers or caregivers

If you'd like to know more about landlord and tenant responsibilities, including rights and duties regarding accommodations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

How to Request an Accommodation

Requesting an accommodation does not have to be complicated, but it's best to follow a clear, written process to protect your rights. Yukon tenants generally should:

• Identify the modification, exemption, or support you need
• Make your request in writing (email or letter preferred)
• Include why the accommodation is needed due to health or disability, but you do not have to share your specific diagnosis
• Provide documentation (such as a note from your doctor, therapist, or community health worker) if your landlord requests reasonable proof

The Yukon Human Rights Commission recommends that tenants and landlords communicate early and openly. A simple example email could be:

I am requesting a reasonable accommodation because of my medical needs. I require a support animal in my unit, which I understand is usually not allowed. Please let me know if you need any further information from my healthcare provider.

Official Forms: Yukon Human Rights Commission Complaint Form

If your landlord refuses a reasonable accommodation and you believe this is discrimination, you may file a complaint with the Yukon Human Rights Commission.

• Form Name: Human Rights Complaint Form
• When & How Used: Use this form after attempting to resolve the issue directly with your landlord, if you believe your rights have been denied. Submit the form by mail, email, or in person. Download and instructions at Yukon Human Rights Commission - File a Complaint.

This process is designed for your protection if you are not able to resolve matters directly with your landlord.

What is a 'Reasonable' Accommodation?

Landlords are required to make changes for tenants with disabilities, unless the request is so major that it would cause the landlord "undue hardship" (major operational, financial, or safety concern).

• Simple changes (like allowing a service animal, or modifying policies) are often considered reasonable.
• Extensive renovations or anything causing serious risks or financial burden may not be required.

The Role of the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office

For most tenancy disputes in Yukon (including maintenance, eviction, or rent increases), tenants can apply to the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office. However, accommodation requests for disability or mental health are considered human rights cases, usually handled by the Human Rights Commission.

If your accommodation issue overlaps with general tenancy matters, review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon for more detailed information.

Tips for a Smooth Accommodation Process

• Communicate in writing whenever possible to keep a clear record
• Provide only the information needed; protect your privacy
• Follow up with your landlord if you do not hear back
• If you move, keep documentation in case you need to request accommodations again

This process can help you maintain a safe and secure place to live while balancing your health needs with your landlord’s obligations.

For additional guidance on navigating challenges with landlords and making your tenancy easier, check out Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Explore a variety of available housing options that may better suit your needs: Browse apartments for rent in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions About Housing Accommodations in Yukon

1. Can my landlord ask for medical details when I request an accommodation?
   Landlords can ask for confirmation that you require an accommodation due to a disability, but they should not demand specific details about your medical condition or diagnosis.
2. What if my landlord refuses my request for a service animal?
   If your landlord refuses and you have provided appropriate documentation, contact the Yukon Human Rights Commission to discuss your options or file a complaint.
3. Does asking for an accommodation put my lease at risk?
   No. Requesting an accommodation is a protected right under law, and your landlord cannot evict or penalize you for making such a request.
4. Do I have to pay for renovations or changes made for my disability?
   Minor modifications are normally at the landlord’s expense, but tenants may be asked to pay for major or specialized alterations, especially if changes are outside of standard repairs or would be removed after you move out.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• You have the right to request housing accommodations for mental health or disability needs in Yukon.
• Make your request in writing and provide necessary documentation, but not your full medical history.
• The Human Rights Commission is your resource if you face discrimination or unfair denial.

Remember: Being proactive, organized, and respectful helps create a positive tenancy for both you and your landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Yukon Human Rights Commission: Help with disability discrimination, accommodation complaints, or mediation support.
• Yukon Residential Tenancies Office: Questions about tenancies, rent, or general legal disputes.
• Yukon Legal Services Society: Free legal advice for low-income tenants. Contact: ylss.ca

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1. Yukon Human Rights Act, RSY 2002, c. 116, See the full Yukon Human Rights Act.
2. Yukon Human Rights Commission, Complaint Process and Forms.
3. Yukon Residential Tenancies Office, Tenancy Information & Resources.

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