Fair Housing

A reasonable accommodation is a change in rules, policies, practices, or services to allow a person with a disability the equal opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling unit or common space. Examples include service animals, parking spaces, or a transfer to a ground-floor apartment.

Reasonable accommodations are generally paid by the housing provider.

A request that does not impose an undue financial or administrative burden to the property or the community.

Verification may be necessary if the disability is not visible, or if the need for accommodation is not apparent. A knowledgeable professional, social worker, or caseworker can provide verification.

The term “protected class” is an Anti- Discrimination term that is used in state and federal law. It refers to a group of people who share a common characteristic and need protection from discrimination and harassment.

Race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, disability, elderliness, source of funds, sexual orientation, gender identity, and military status.

If you manage an assisted property, be aware that both service animals and emotional support animals are NOT considered pets and are therefore not subject to pet rent, pet deposits, or any fees associated with companion animals (pets). 

The property manager may request documentation to support that the service animal or emotional support animal is needed because of the resident’s disability only if the disability or disability-related need for the animal is not obvious.

Since this is an assisted property, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 applied, and it is your responsibility as the housing provider to pay for reasonable modifications made necessary because of a resident’s disability.

However, you need only make accommodations (including physical modifications) that are effective; you are under no obligation to do everything to the exact specifications requested by the resident. As long as the door knock indicator you’ve installed is effective, you’ve met your responsibilities under Section 504.