Intro to Reasonable Accommodations and Modifications

For many people with disabilities, finding a home that suits their needs can be really hard. Reasonable accommodation or modification is a way to make sure they can access housing just like everyone else.

Request Definition Examples
Reasonable accommodation Change, exception, or adjustment to a rule, policy, practice, or service. 
  • Giving a reserved accessible parking space near a resident’s unit for someone with a mobility or respiratory disability. 
  • Providing documents in alternate formats such as large print or in electronic form for a person with a vision disability. 
  • Allowing a resident with a disability to have an assistance animal in a “no-pets” building.
  • Waiving guest fees or guest rules for a live-in aide for a resident with a disability.
Reasonable modification Structural change made to the premises
  • 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 

You can ask for changes to be made at any time – when you're applying, signing a lease, living there, or even during an eviction. And, if someone from your family or someone helping you makes the request, that works too. It's all about making sure everyone has a fair chance at finding a home that fits their needs.

Housing providers must: 

  • Engage in an interactive process with residents who request an accommodation or modification; 
  • Respond in an adequate and prompt manner; 
  • Determine if there is a need for the request; and 
  • Determine if the request is reasonable.

Check out the following links to learn more: 

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.

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