Accessible Units in New Construction: Colorado Renters’ Guide

If you’re a renter in Colorado looking for a new apartment or home, you may be wondering about accessible unit requirements in newly built housing. Colorado law—along with federal legislation—sets clear standards to ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to rental properties. This article explains those requirements, how to access an accessible unit, and what to do if your rights are not met.

Understanding Accessible Unit Requirements in Colorado

Whether you need wheelchair access or other disability accommodations, new residential buildings in Colorado must meet specific rules for accessibility. These standards help protect the rights of renters with disabilities and ensure fair housing opportunities for all.

Which Buildings Must Comply?

• All new multi-family buildings with four or more units built after March 13, 1991
• Some renovation or major remodeling projects, if they involve substantial changes to existing residential structures

These requirements are based on the federal Fair Housing Act Accessibility Guidelines and are enforced under Colorado’s Fair Housing laws.

What Accessibility Features Are Required?

• No-step or gently sloping entrance to units (for ground-floor units, or all floors in elevator buildings)
• Accessible routes throughout the unit and building common areas
• Reinforced bathroom walls for grab bars
• Accessible environmental controls (such as thermostats and light switches) at reachable heights
• Wide doorways and halls for wheelchair access
• Usable kitchens and bathrooms with clear floor space

Developers must follow these standards in accordance with Colorado Civil Rights Division policies, underlined by the Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) § 24-34-501 et seq. ^[1].

How to Request a Disability Accommodation

Renters may need a specific modification or adjustment to ensure full access. You have the right to request accommodations, such as:

• A ramp added to an entrance that is not accessible
• Permission to install grab bars in your bathroom
• Changes to parking arrangements

Landlords cannot refuse a reasonable accommodation if it is necessary due to your disability, unless it would create an undue financial or administrative burden.

Official Forms for Accessibility Requests in Colorado

• Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (DORA): If a landlord or housing provider refuses to comply with accessibility requirements or denies your reasonable accommodation request, file a complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD).
  When & How: Use this form if you believe you have faced housing discrimination based on disability. It can be filed online, by mail, or in person. For example, if your rental application is denied because you requested an accessible unit.
  Access the Housing Discrimination Complaint Form here

Who Enforces Accessibility in Colorado Rentals?

• Official Tribunal/Board: The Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD) is responsible for investigating and enforcing housing accessibility and anti-discrimination laws for renters in Colorado.

If you’re not sure where to turn with your questions or complaints, this agency offers resources and assistance for renters statewide.

Relevant Colorado Legislation

• Fair Housing Act (federal law)
• Colorado Revised Statutes, Article 34, Part 5 (C.R.S. § 24-34-501, et seq.) – Colorado rights for people with disabilities in housing

Staying familiar with these regulations helps protect your rights throughout your tenancy.

FAQs: Accessible Units and Disability Rights in Colorado Rentals

1. Are all new apartments in Colorado required to be fully accessible for wheelchairs?
   No, but all ground-floor units in multifamily buildings (or in elevator buildings, all units) must be accessible, and certain accessibility features are mandatory by law.
2. What should I do if my landlord refuses my accommodation request?
   You can file a complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD). Gather any written requests and supporting documentation before submitting your complaint.
3. Do I have to pay for modifications, like adding grab bars or ramps?
   Generally, if the modifications are reasonable and necessary due to your disability, the landlord may be responsible for costs in common areas or for features required by law, but changes inside your individual rental may sometimes be at your expense unless otherwise specified.
4. Can a landlord deny me housing because of my disability?
   No. It is illegal for a landlord to refuse tenancy or treat you differently because of a disability under state and federal law.
5. How can I report non-compliance with accessibility laws?
   Complete the Housing Discrimination Complaint Form and file it with CCRD. They will review your complaint and may investigate.

Key Takeaways

• New multifamily buildings in Colorado must include accessible units and follow federal and state accessibility standards.
• Renters with disabilities have the right to request reasonable accommodations; landlords must comply unless there is significant hardship.
• If denied your rights, you can file a formal complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD): Main agency for accessibility and housing discrimination. Call (303) 894-2997 or visit the CCRD housing complaint page.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Disability Rights in Housing
• Colorado Accessible Housing Legislation
• Disability Law Colorado: Free legal advocacy for renters with disabilities.

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1. Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 24 – Human Rights (Article 34, Part 5)
2. Fair Housing Act Accessibility Guidelines (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development)
3. Colorado Civil Rights Division: Housing Discrimination

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