A landlord covered by the Fair Housing Act generally must allow a necessary, reasonable wheelchair ramp modification. In ordinary private housing, the resident usually pays for a new modification; determine the property’s existing access obligations before agreeing on cost. [1][2]
Permission and payment are separate questions
A disability-related structural alteration is a reasonable modification. A rule change, such as permission to use an accessible entrance, can instead be a reasonable accommodation. Do not assume the person paying for construction also controls whether the request may be denied. [2]
The HUD and Justice Department guidance explains that owners can require reasonable construction assurances and necessary permits. They cannot insist that the resident use the owner’s preferred contractor. Restoration rules distinguish the inside of a dwelling from exterior changes; a ramp outside is not automatically something the tenant must remove. [2]
How to make a useful request
Describe the barrier, the proposed ramp location, and why the alteration is needed. When the disability or connection to the request is not obvious, limited supporting information may be requested; a complete medical file is ordinarily unnecessary. [2]
- Ask whether the property receives federal financial assistance.
- Provide dimensions or a contractor’s proposal if available.
- Discuss permits, maintenance, and access during construction.
- Keep the written request and the landlord’s response.
When an existing barrier may be a compliance issue
First ask whether the entrance should already have been accessible. Covered multifamily housing can have design-and-construction duties independent of a tenant’s request. Section 504 can also require a federally assisted provider to make and pay for needed structural changes, subject to its requirements and undue-burden limits. Check the building’s construction history and funding before agreeing that a new ramp is solely a tenant-funded improvement. [1] [2] [3]
Practical application
A useful request identifies the entrance that cannot be used, proposes a feasible ramp, and explains why another route would not meet the resident’s needs. If the owner requests a permit or construction assurance, address that issue specifically. A refusal should be evaluated against the proposed modification and governing housing program, rather than accepted simply because the lease prohibits alterations. [2]
If the landlord refuses permission
Ask for the reason in writing and keep the request, proposed plans, supporting information, and response. HUD and Justice Department guidance explains that a wrongful refusal of a reasonable modification can be challenged through a HUD complaint or a Fair Housing Act lawsuit. Filing periods apply, so seek help promptly rather than letting an unanswered request remain unresolved. [2]
Related questions
Related guidance: accessible condominium parking and landlord and tenant accessibility duties.
Primary sources
- 42 U.S.C. § 3604 — Office of Law Revision Counsel
- HUD and DOJ Joint Statement — Reasonable Modifications Under the Fair Housing Act
- 29 U.S.C. § 794 — Office of Law Revision Counsel
Sources checked: October 31, 2026.