Yes, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) can deny a reasonable accommodation request under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) if:
1. It imposes an undue financial or administrative burden – If the accommodation is too costly or difficult to implement.
2. It fundamentally alters the nature of the housing provider’s operations – If the request significantly changes the way the housing is typically run.
3. There is no disability-related necessity – If the request is not directly related to the person’s disability.
4. It poses a direct threat to health or safety – If granting the accommodation would create a danger to others that cannot be mitigated.
Even if the landlord agrees to an accommodation, HUD or a public housing authority (PHA) can still deny it if it doesn’t meet legal standards. If a request is denied, the tenant can:
• Negotiate alternatives with the housing provider.
• File a complaint with HUD or a state/local fair housing agency.
• Seek legal assistance to challenge the denial.
Would you like help drafting a response to a denied accommodation request?