Fair Housing Act: Rights of Disabled Tenants

Selma's Rights under the Federal Fair Housing Act

Selma, a disabled person, leases an apartment for two years. She concludes that certain structural modifications inside the apartment will be necessary to accommodate her physical limitations. Under the federal Fair Housing Act, Selma:

Under the federal Fair Housing Act, Selma, as a disabled person, is entitled to request reasonable accommodations from her landlord in order to allow her to use and enjoy her apartment. This includes structural modifications to the apartment that are necessary to accommodate her physical limitations.

The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in the rental of housing and requires that landlords make reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities unless doing so would create an undue financial or administrative burden for the landlord. Examples of reasonable accommodations could include installing grab bars in the bathroom, widening doorways to accommodate wheelchairs, or allowing a service animal in the apartment.

It is important to note that Selma must make a request for reasonable accommodation in writing to her landlord and provide documentation from a medical professional that supports her need for the accommodation. The landlord must respond to the request in a timely manner, and if the request is denied, must provide a valid reason for the denial. If Selma believes that she has been discriminated against, she can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or with a state or local fair housing agency.

What rights does Selma have under the Federal Fair Housing Act as a disabled tenant?

As a disabled tenant, Selma has the right to request reasonable accommodations from her landlord under the Federal Fair Housing Act. These accommodations may include structural modifications to the apartment to accommodate her physical limitations.