Which federal act requires formal action if a tenant is seeking accommodation for a disability?

The Fair Housing Act is the federal legislation that requires property owners and managers to take formal action when a tenant requests reasonable accommodations for a disability. This law prohibits discrimination based on disability, among other protected classes, and mandates that housing providers make necessary adjustments or modifications to policies, practices, or services when requested by tenants with disabilities, unless doing so would impose an undue financial burden or fundamentally alter the nature of the housing program.

This act's focus on accessibility promotes equal opportunity in housing for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they can enjoy the same housing decisions as those not facing such challenges. It places the responsibility on property managers and landlords to address accommodation requests, highlighting the importance of formal procedures in handling these situations.

In contrast, the Americans with Disabilities Act primarily focuses on public accommodations and services, rather than housing discrimination specifically. The Housing and Urban Development Act and the Equal Opportunity Act address various aspects of housing and civil rights but do not specifically detail the requirements regarding accommodations for disabilities in a similar manner as the Fair Housing Act.