NY Reasonable Accommodation for Prospective Tenants

Reasonable Accommodations

Under the New York State Human Rights Law, housing providers are required to make reasonable accommodations or modifications to a residence or building to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities. For example, if you have a physical, mental, or medical impairment, you may request modifications to common areas or adjustments to certain policies to better accommodate your needs.

To request a reasonable accommodation, contact your property manager. You must inform them of your disability or health condition that affects your ability to fully use your housing. Your request should explain how the accommodation will allow you equal access to your housing and the amenities and services normally available. In some cases, the housing provider may ask for medical documentation to confirm the disability and the need for the accommodation.

If you believe your request for a reasonable accommodation has been denied, or if you have been denied housing or retaliated against for making a request, you have the right to file a complaint with the New York State Division of Human Rights as outlined at the end of this notice.

Types of Reasonable Accommodations and Modifications

If you have a physical, mental, or medical impairment, you can request the following:

Interior Modifications: You may request permission to modify the interior of your unit to make it more accessible. While you are responsible for the costs of these changes, in rental properties, your housing provider may require you to return the unit to its original condition when you move out.

Policy Adjustments: You may request changes to your housing provider’s rules, policies, or practices to accommodate your needs.

Common Area Modifications: You may request adjustments to common areas (e.g., hallways, lobbies, or parking) to ensure you can access these spaces. Housing providers are required to pay for reasonable modifications to these areas.

Examples of Reasonable Modifications and Accommodations:

Mobility Impairment: If you have mobility issues, your provider may need to install a ramp or other means of access.
Service Animals: If a healthcare provider states that an animal is necessary for your disability, you should be allowed to keep the animal in your home, even if there is a "no pet" policy.
Bathroom Modifications: If you need grab bars in your bathroom, you may request to install them at your expense. If your housing was built after March 13, 1991, and the walls need to be reinforced to install grab bars, your housing provider must cover the cost.
Parking: If you need a parking space near your unit due to your disability, you can request that your housing provider provide one or add you to the top of a waiting list.
Visual Impairment: If you have a visual impairment, you may request printed notices in an alternative format, such as large print or electronically.

Required Accessibility Standards

All buildings constructed after March 13, 1991, must meet the following accessibility standards:
Public and common areas must be accessible and usable by individuals with disabilities.
Doors must be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs.
Multi-family buildings must provide accessible passageways, fixtures, outlets, thermostats, bathrooms, and kitchens.
If your building does not meet these standards, you can file a complaint with the New York State Division of Human Rights.

How to File a Complaint

To file a complaint, you must do so within one year of the alleged discriminatory act with the Division, or within three years if filing in court. For more information on your rights and how to file a complaint, visit www.dhr.ny.gov or call 1-888-392-3644. You can obtain a complaint form on the website, or request one to be emailed or mailed to you. You may also contact a regional office listed on the website.