Installing Railing. Should I do it or require the tenant?

[Tera B.]

I have a potential tenant who has requested installation of hand railing in the living room and bathroom. I will allow the potential tenant to install the railing but I am objecting to being responsible for the install for a variety of reasons. What do other landlords do in this situation? Would you install the railing or require the tenant to install them at his/her own expense?

[Matt Devincenzo]

Like @Fred Hellermentioned it sounds like this is a disability guided request....

So what does the ADA say about "reasonable accommodation"? You should do a search and read the actual text for yourself, but I'll sum up.

Assuming a tenant otherwise passes your screening, you can not deny them based on a disability (or their need for specific improvements for that disability). However, the tenant is responsible for the cost to install, and remove those items when they leave. As long as you do that (allow them the ability to have them installed, and don't "prohibit" the modification) then you have made a reasonable accommodation and are ok as far as the ADA/fair housing goes.

Obviously you really should read the appropriate portion of the act yourself, and if you have any doubts or questions seek appropriate legal counsel. But it really is written in plain english and isn't too hard to comprehend.