What are the rights of disabled individuals under the Fair Housing Act?

Disabled individuals in the state of Delaware are protected under the Fair Housing Act. This federal law prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, religion, sex, national origin, and disability. Under the Fair Housing Act, disabled individuals have a right to reasonable accommodations in the “rules, policies, practices, or services” of a housing provider. These accommodations can include allowing disabled individuals to have a service or emotional support animal, building a wheelchair ramp, or making reasonable modifications to the premises. For example, if a tenant wants to install grab bars in the bathroom, the landlord would need to allow this if the installation does not cause an undue financial burden or alter the structure of the home. Additionally, the Fair Housing Act requires housing providers to make reasonable accommodations for disabled persons, even if the requested accommodations change the previously established rules. This could include allowing a tenant to break a no-pets rule for a service animal or providing a designated parking space for a wheelchair. Finally, the Fair Housing Act also prohibits discrimination in the terms and conditions of leases. For instance, a housing provider cannot require a disability-related security deposit. If a tenant with a disability needs special equipment or devices, like a wheelchair lift or a motorized chair, the provider cannot refuse to supply them. By protecting the rights of disabled individuals under the Fair Housing Act, Delaware ensures that disabled persons have equal access to housing opportunities.

What are the rights of disabled individuals under the Fair Housing Act?

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