Disabled renters have many legal protections that many single-family rental property owners may not know. In reference to the Fair Housing Act, individuals with a disability are protected from discrimination when renting or buying a home, applying for a mortgage, and seeking housing assistance. So that a disabled person can live comfortably and safely, the Act also requires landlords to allow “reasonable accommodations” to be provided for in the rental house. Such as a tenant in a wheelchair may need grab bars installed in the shower or tub for easier access or install a ramp. At the same time someone with limited hand use may want to install special faucets or door handles.
With these kinds of accommodations, a significant contrast is raised between letting a tenant modify a rental house at his or her own expense and is required to do it for them. The law clearly states that a property owner should allow reasonable modifications, however, it does not require landlords to pay for them. Under the Act, your tenant should apply for prior approval from you in advance of the start of any work. You can even legally require them to return the rental house to its original condition upon moving out. In addition, you can ask your tenant for a detailed description of the proposed changes, as well as have them provide proof that the work will be performed in a satisfactory way, and make them obtain any necessary building permits or owners association approval if it is needed.
As the property owner, you cannot outright refuse reasonable accommodations or refuse to change policies or practices that would prevent a disabled tenant from using the house. This consists of requests for service animals and other accommodations that may otherwise violate the terms of your lease. This also means you absolutely cannot charge a disabled tenant more rent for making such accommodations, either. Any endeavors to set terms or conditions different from those of other tenants is a clear violation of Fair Housing laws.
Usually, renting your single-family home to a disabled tenant can be a difficult task as you navigate through the Fair Housing Act. Reading as much as you possibly can about the law and what you legally can and cannot do will do a lot to help, but the best option is to obtain help from property management professionals who have a background in renting single-family homes to tenants with disabilities.
At Real Property Management Southland, we diligently work towards the strict adherence to all requirements of the Fair Housing Act. We have the prowess and practical knowledge that can provide support to rental property owners like you. This will ensure that you are able to follow rental practices that are well within the limits of the law. Our organization of Paramount property management professionals can answer any questions you have and assist in keeping you out of legal trouble. Call us at 562-270-1777 or contact us online for more information.