How to Find a Rental if You Have a Disability

Renters with disabilities have the same rights as renters without disabilities. Some apartments and housing projects have been designed to be utilized by disabled renters, but there are usually waiting lists.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Phone Books
• Real Estate Attorneys
• Notebooks
• Writing Pens

1. Contact your local Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) office, which is listed in the government section of the phone book. HUD specializes in helping people with special needs find suitable housing. When you call, you'll be directed to a local housing authority office. Make an appointment to go in.

2. Look for a Center for Independent Living listing in the governement section of the phone book.

3. Scan local rental guides. Apartment descriptions will include disability-access information.

4. Use a rental service to help locate potential apartments with disability access.

5. Get a list of properties that provide access for those with disabilities.

6. Call property managers at compatible sites and proceed with the application process.

Tips & Warnings

• Know your rights under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). Under the ADA, it's illegal for a potential landlord to deny your rental application based on your disability. The landlord is not allowed to determine whether or not a particular property is appropriate for you.

• Figure out whether retrofitting a house or apartment with a wheelchair ramp or other equipment is feasible. If it is, HUD can help with costs.

• Depending on your disability, some properties will not be acceptable.