What tenants’ rights are protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal civil rights law. It protects people with disabilities from discrimination and requires that landlords make reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities in housing. These accommodations protect the rights of tenants with disabilities, who may need adjustments or modifications to their rental units. People with disabilities who rent in Massachusetts are entitled to reasonable accommodations under the ADA, which can include making changes to the physical space of the rental property. This could include making the unit wheelchair accessible, installing grab bars, allowing a service animal, or providing a covered parking space. Landlords may not charge additional fees for these accommodations. In addition to physical changes, tenants with disabilities may also be entitled to special services or assistance. Landlords may be required to make special arrangements to help disabled tenants with activities such as housekeeping, bathing, or laundry. The ADA also prohibits landlords from making decisions about the rental of a unit based on a tenant’s disability or asking a potential tenant questions about their disability. They cannot raise the rent of a tenant because of a disability or set different rules for tenants with disabilities. All tenants in Massachusetts with disabilities have the right to request reasonable accommodations under the ADA. Landlords who do not comply with the law may be liable for damages. It is important for all tenants to understand how the ADA protects their rights and to know how to seek assistance if needed.

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What tenants’ rights are protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act?

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