Are there any special protections for tenants with disabilities under Fair Housing Law?

Yes, tenants with disabilities are protected under Fair Housing Law in Massachusetts. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), landlords must make reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities that may include changes to building policies or practices as well as structural modifications to a rental unit or common area. This could include building access ramps or constructing an entrance for a rental unit that is accessible to a tenant with a mobility disability. Tenants with disabilities are also entitled to reasonable modifications, at their own expense, to their rental units. Landlords must allow these changes if they are necessary for a tenant with a disability to use and enjoy a dwelling. For example, a tenant with a physical disability may require a wheelchair ramp or an elevator. Additionally, landlords may not refuse to make reasonable accommodations or reasonable modifications for tenants with disabilities or charge additional fees for making changes. Lastly, landlords must also permit assistance animals, even when they have a “no-pets” policy. Assistance animals can be used to help tenants with disabilities with activities of daily living, such as a guide dog for a tenant with limited vision. Landlords must waive any pet deposits or fees normally required for animals and may not charge a tenant with a disability more than the general pet fees charged to other tenants.

Related FAQs

Are landlords allowed to refuse to rent to people based on their gender identity under Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords required to post a notice of non-discrimination in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
How does Fair Housing Law apply to disabled persons?
What are the protected classes under Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords required to provide certain services and amenities to tenants in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to require tenants to pay a security deposit in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Does a landlord have to adhere to Fair Housing Law when setting rental prices?
What are the criteria for determining if a landlord has violated Fair Housing Law?
Are there any forms or documents required for filing a Fair Housing Law complaint?
Are landlords responsible for the actions of their employees in regards to Fair Housing Law?

Are there any special protections for tenants with disabilities under Fair Housing Law?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts