Reasonable Accommodations
What is REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION? Under state and federal Fair Housing laws, reasonable accommodation is a change in rules, policies, or practices that allows a person with a disability equal opportunity to use and enjoy dwelling units (including public and common areas). The accommodations cannot impose an undue hardship on the owner or alter the main function or purpose of the housing.
Examples of reasonable accommodations in housing are:
- Sending housing applications to consumers who, because of their disabilities, cannot pick them up in person as required by the local housing authority.
- Designating an HP parking spot closer to your unit because you cannot travel the distance because of your disability.
- Allowing an exemption from a "no pets" policy to allow your companion or service animal to live with you in the unit.
- Providing a first floor unit because your disability makes climbing stairs difficult.
- Granting an extension of the 120-day search time for a Section 8 because wheelchair accessible units are difficult to locate. The housing authority is also responsible for assisting with the search for a wheelchair accessible unit.
- Allowing ramps or other modifications that are needed because of your mobility impairment. In some instances, the landlord may be responsible for paying for modifications.
- Allowing the installation of visual signaling devices which are necessary because you are deaf or hard of hearing. Again, in some instance, the landlord may be responsible for paying for these devices.
Contact CORD at (508) 775-8300 or 1-800-541-0282 if you have questions regarding reasonable accommodations in housing.