Reasonable Modifications: Your Rights and Responsibilities to Requesting Structural Changes
Reasonable modifications are structural changes to the tenant’s unit or the building.
Examples include:
- Installing grab bars in the bathroom.
- Changing doorknobs to levers for easier access.
- Installing a ramp to the front door of the building.
- Installing a doorbell with a light instead of sound.
- Widening the doorways in a unit for easier access
Tenant’s can ask for a reasonable modification at any time.
Before saying yes to a reasonable modification, the housing provider can ask for:
- A description of the change, which can be verbal or written depending on what the change is.
- A promise that the change will be done in a professional manner.
- A promise that the change follows all relevant building and architectural codes and is done by a licensed contractor. But, the housing provider can’t make the resident use a specific contractor.
- Necessary permits.
If the housing provider asks for this information and the tenant does not provide it, then the request can be denied as unreasonable. But, there are sometimes invalid denials.
The above article provides information about legal issues but is not the same as legal advice. Legal advice is when a lawyer applies the law to your specific situation. The information in this article does not replace the advice or representation of a licensed attorney. Law Center for Better Housing cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information in this article and is not responsible for any consequences that may result from using it. You should consult with a licensed attorney to ensure the information in this article is appropriate for your specific situation. Using the information in this article does not create a relationship between Law Center for Better Housing and you as your attorney.