4.2 A. Reasonable Modification of Premises

• Library: Disability Law and Practice, Vol. 3 (NY) 2017

A. Reasonable Modification of Premises

Individuals with mobility impairments, who may use a wheelchair or other assistive device to ambulate, frequently need to modify a dwelling in order to use and enjoy it. Individuals who are visually impaired, hearing impaired or who have other disabilities may sometimes require modifications that are less apparent but equally important.

Modifications typically needed by people with mobility impairments include installing a ramp, widening a doorway, removing cabinets under sinks, lowering counter tops and mirrors, installing shower grab bars or removing plush carpeting that impedes wheelchair movement. A deaf tenant might require a visual smoke detector (i.e., one that lights up) for fire safety and a visual means of letting him or her know when someone is at the door. An individual with a severe respiratory impairment may require that...