Accessible Housing Requirements for New Rentals in DC

Finding an accessible apartment is crucial for many renters with disabilities. In the District of Columbia, there are specific laws that require new residential construction to include accessible units and features. These regulations are in place to ensure that people with mobility, sensory, or other disabilities have equal opportunities in housing. This guide explains the requirements, your rights as a renter, and how to request reasonable accommodations.

What Does "Accessible Unit" Mean?

An accessible unit is designed so that people with disabilities can use it easily and safely. These units often include features such as:

• Step-free entrances
• Wider doors and hallways
• Lowered kitchen counters and appliances
• Grab bars in bathrooms
• Accessible light switches and thermostats

Accessible units must be usable by individuals in wheelchairs and those with other physical disabilities.

Laws Covering Accessible Housing in New DC Construction

Several laws govern accessible housing in Washington, DC. The most important are the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the local District of Columbia Human Rights Act (DCHRA). Both require new multifamily housing buildings to include accessible units and common areas.^[1]

District of Columbia Building Code Accessibility Requirements

All new multifamily buildings in DC with four or more dwelling units must follow accessibility guidelines. This means a percentage of apartments in every new construction must be accessible. The DC Building Code adopts standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Fair Housing Act. These include:

• Accessible routes from building entrances to units
• Barrier-free common areas (e.g., mailrooms, laundry rooms)
• Required number of fully accessible units (varies by project size)

Developers must comply with the latest codes when applying for construction permits from the DC Department of Buildings.

How to Request or Confirm an Accessible Unit

If you need an accessible unit or certain accommodations, you have the right to make a reasonable accommodation request. This is a formal request to your landlord or property manager, asking for a modification or policy change to make housing accessible.

Official Form: Reasonable Accommodation Request Form (Form 100RA)

• Form Name: Reasonable Accommodation Request Form (Form 100RA)
• Purpose: Use this form to formally request an accessible unit, physical modification, or policy adjustment (such as a reserved parking spot).
• Practical Example: If you use a wheelchair and need a ground-floor unit or lowered counters, you would submit this form to your property manager.
• Download the DC Reasonable Accommodation Request Form (Form 100RA)

After submitting this form, the landlord must review your request and respond within a reasonable period, unless doing so would cause an "undue financial or administrative burden."^[2]

Who Enforces Accessible Housing Laws in DC?

The Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA) helps renters resolve accessibility disputes and enforce housing rights. You can also contact the DC Office of Human Rights to file discrimination complaints.

Relevant Tribunal

The DC Rental Housing Commission handles many disputes regarding tenant rights, including accessibility complaints in rental housing.

Summary of Accessible Unit Regulations in DC

New buildings with four or more dwellings must provide accessible units and features. Renters with disabilities are entitled to request additional accommodations as needed. If a landlord fails to provide access or respond appropriately to your request, you may file a complaint with official agencies for investigation and enforcement. Staying informed helps ensure your housing is safe and accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What buildings must provide accessible rental units in DC?
   All new multifamily buildings with at least four units must include accessible apartments and common spaces under local and federal law.
2. How do I ask for a specific accessibility feature in my apartment?
   Fill out the Reasonable Accommodation Request Form (Form 100RA) and submit it to your landlord or property manager.
3. What if my landlord refuses to provide an accessible unit?
   You can file a complaint with the DC Office of Human Rights or seek assistance from the Office of the Tenant Advocate.
4. How many units in a new apartment building must be accessible?
   The number depends on the size of the building. Generally, a certain percentage must be accessible. Check the current DC Building Code for details.
5. Is there a fee for requesting an accommodation?
   No. It is illegal for landlords to charge renters for processing or granting reasonable accommodation requests.

Key Takeaways

• DC law requires accessible units in all new multifamily constructions with four or more rentals.
• Renters can submit accommodation requests using official forms.
• Complaints about accessibility can be filed with the Office of Human Rights or the Rental Housing Commission.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA) – Free support and advocacy for renters in DC
• DC Office of Human Rights – File disability discrimination complaints
• DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) – Tenant resources and forms
• DC Department of Buildings – Access building codes and permit information
• District of Columbia Human Rights Act (official legislation)

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1. Fair Housing Act (Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968); District of Columbia Human Rights Act
2. DC Reasonable Accommodation Request Form (Form 100RA); DC Building Code Updates

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