Wheel chair accessibility

[Brandon Bell]

So I was screening for tenants for my rental, and this one family met all my criteria. When I went to show them the unit, I found out one of the renters was in a wheel chair, this unit is not wheel chair friendly! It’s a gravel drive way, multiple steps to the door, and no bedrooms on the first floor. They seem really interested regardless and where asking when they can move in. I’m worried that the person is going to get hurt and I’m going to get sued. I feel like I’m also not allowed to not deny them based off their disability, but like I said there is no wheel chair accessibility! I have no clue what to do, any help?

[Bill B.]

That’s a tough spot. Defiantly don’t discriminate because of disability. 

During the showing were they able to get in to the house and up the stairs? If so you’re probably fine. Maybe they’re used to using a pull out couch on the main floor. Maybe they’re less than fully disabled.

You might find someone onheee that has dealt with requests for disability modifications by an existing tenant and who has to pay for it. If they can suddenly ask for ramps and such after they move in and if you’d have to pay for them or the tenant. 

GL