To start with, ‘reasonable accommodation’ could be for the physical elements of the rental property and comprise basic adjustments, such as lowering light switches and towel rods or a smoke alarm equipped with flashing lights in addition to an audible sound. Also, the renter would pay for both the putting in and removing of these accommodations.
In addition to accommodations to the property’s physical components, your tenant may ask for ‘reasonable accommodation’ on the administrative side. Let’s say you have a tenant with a mental disability that affects their memory. This tenant might ask that you call monthly to remind them to pay the rent. This would be considered reasonable.
Now, let’s explore an instance that could be thought of as ‘unreasonable’. In this regard, one of the primary considerations is whether the accommodation would be burdensome for you as a housing provider. For example, let’s assume you own a two-story single-family rental home and get a request that you install an elevator for an individual with a physical disability. This could be refused as it would be pricey and require major construction.
An unreasonable accommodation request can develop on administrative matters as well. Suppose you own a single-family home and receive a request from a potential resident with a mental impairment to call them every morning and evening to remind them to switch the exterior lights off in the morning and back on at night. This would be deemed unreasonable and you as a landlord can deny this request.
Real Property Management Sarasota & Manatee is well versed in the Fair Housing Act requirements and how they concern you as an Englewood landlord with a single-family home. We can help you manage these requirements to ensure that you are in compliance when renting to persons with disabilities. Would you like to know more? Please contact us online or call us at 941-216-0005 for more information.