Tenants’ Rights to Reasonable Accommodations

Housing providers are required to make reasonable accommodations or modifications to meet the needs of people with disabilities. This may include changing rules, policies, or physical structures so that tenants can equally enjoy their housing.

• Request changes to common areas for accessibility.
• Ask for policy modifications to meet your needs.
• Request interior modifications (with responsibility to restore upon move-out, unless otherwise required).

• Installation of ramps or accessible entrances for mobility impairments.
• Permission for a support animal despite a “no pet” policy, with documentation.
• Grab bars in bathrooms (with costs covered by housing provider if structural changes are required in newer buildings).
• Assignment of a closer parking space for tenants with mobility impairments.
• Alternative format communications (large print, electronic) for tenants with visual impairments.

All multi-family housing built for occupancy after March 13, 1991, must comply with accessibility standards:

• Public and common areas must be accessible.
• Doors must allow wheelchair passage.
• Accessible passageways, fixtures, outlets, thermostats, bathrooms, and kitchens must be included.

If you believe you have been denied a reasonable accommodation or your building does not meet accessibility standards, you can file a complaint with the New York State Division of Human Rights.

Complaints must be filed within one year of the alleged discriminatory act with the Division, or within three years in court.

For more information or to file a complaint:

• Visit www.dhr.ny.gov
• Call 1-888-392-3644
• Request a complaint form by mail or email from a regional office