Georgia Renters’ Rights: Accessibility in New Construction

Finding a home that meets your accessibility needs is crucial for independence and comfort. In Georgia, there are specific legal requirements for accessible units in newly constructed rental buildings. This guide explains what those requirements are, your rights as a renter, and how to take action if your needs aren’t met.

Understanding Accessibility Requirements in Georgia New Construction

Newly constructed multifamily housing in Georgia must follow federal and state laws ensuring accessibility for people with disabilities. These rules apply to buildings designed for first occupancy after March 13, 1991, with four or more units.

• Federal Fair Housing Act (FHA): Requires accessible design features in all covered multifamily dwellings.
• Georgia Accessibility Code: Mirrors federal standards with some additional details for state compliance (Georgia Code, Title 30, Chapter 3).

What Features Must Be Included?

• At least one accessible building entrance on an accessible route.
• Accessible common and public use areas (like mailrooms, laundry, leasing offices).
• Doorways wide enough (at least 32 inches) for wheelchairs.
• Accessible routes into and through each unit.
• Reinforced bathroom walls for grab bars.
• Usable kitchens and bathrooms for wheelchair users.
• Accessible light switches and thermostat controls.

This means renters with disabilities should be able to live and move freely within their homes and shared building spaces.

How Many Accessible Units Are Required?

For buildings with four or more units built after March 13, 1991, all ground-floor units in non-elevator buildings and all units in elevator buildings must meet accessibility requirements. Some units may need to be fully accessible according to Section 504 standards if the building receives federal funding.

Requesting Reasonable Modifications & Accommodations

Georgia law, aligned with the Fair Housing Act, allows renters with disabilities to request reasonable modifications or accommodations. This could include installing grab bars, visual alarms, or allowing a service animal.

How to Request an Accommodation

1. Ask your landlord in writing for the modification or accommodation.
2. Provide relevant documentation about your disability if requested (never medical details, just proof of need).
3. Work with your landlord on arrangements (you may be responsible for costs if modifications are for your unit only).

For sample letters and guidance, visit HUD's official page on reasonable accommodations.

Georgia Forms for Accessibility Issues

• Georgia Fair Housing Complaint Form
  Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity – File a Complaint
  When to use: If you believe your rights to an accessible unit have been violated, you can submit this form online or by mail. Example: Your new building lacks an accessible entrance, or your landlord refuses your reasonable accommodation request.
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (HUD-903-1)
  HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Process
  When to use: If your complaint involves federal Fair Housing Act violations. File online or download the form. Example: Your unit’s kitchen or bathroom is not accessible as required by law.

Who Handles Accessibility Complaints?

Accessibility complaints in Georgia rentals are handled by the Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity Fair Housing Division and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity.

No singular "tenant board" oversees residential tenancies in Georgia, but the Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity is the main state agency for fair housing issues.

Relevant Georgia Laws for Renters

• Georgia Code Title 30 – Handicapped Persons, Chapter 3: Fair Housing
• The federal Fair Housing Act
• Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) & Section 504 (if federally funded)

FAQ: Georgia Accessible Unit Requirements

1. What is considered an accessible unit under Georgia law?
   An accessible unit must have entryways, bathrooms, kitchens, and common areas that allow use by someone with limited mobility, plus features like wide doors and accessible switches.
2. Do all new apartment buildings have to offer accessible units?
   All new multifamily buildings (four or more units) built after March 13, 1991, must include accessible units according to the Fair Housing Act and Georgia law.
3. Can I request modifications if my unit is not accessible?
   Yes. Georgia law allows you to request reasonable modifications at your expense, or reasonable accommodations from your landlord. You may need to provide simple documentation.
4. What agency do I contact if my landlord refuses my request?
   Start with the Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity, or file with HUD if federal law applies.
5. Is there a time limit to file a fair housing complaint?
   Yes. Usually you must file within one year from when the alleged discrimination occurred.

Key Takeaways for Georgia Renters

• Georgia requires new rental housing (four+ units) to include accessible features and sometimes fully accessible units.
• You have the right to request modifications and file complaints if accessibility obligations aren’t met.
• For support, use official forms or contact the Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity.

Understanding and using your rights ensures safer and more comfortable homes for all Georgia renters.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity: Fair Housing Division
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Fair Housing
• Georgia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities: Accessibility Accommodations
• Georgia Fair Housing Law – Full Text

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1. Georgia Code Title 30, Chapter 3 – Fair Housing
2. U.S. Fair Housing Act Overview
3. Georgia Fair Housing Complaint Form

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