Kansas New Construction Accessibility Rules for Renters

Finding housing that's accessible and meets your needs is vital as a renter in Kansas. Knowing your rights concerning accessible unit requirements in new construction can help you get the accommodations you deserve and ensure compliance with the law. This guide explains essential accessibility rules, the key legislation, important forms, and how to advocate for your needs as a renter with a disability in Kansas.

What Are Accessible Unit Requirements in New Construction?

In Kansas, newly built apartment buildings and multi-family dwellings must meet specific accessibility standards designed to support residents with physical disabilities. These requirements are guided by both federal and state law, ensuring fair access for everyone.

Key Protections for Accessible Rental Units

• Federal Fair Housing Act (FHA): Multi-family buildings with four or more units built after March 13, 1991 must have features accessible to people with disabilities, such as accessible entrances, wider doors, and accessible common areas. Learn more about FHA accessibility requirements.
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Public and common-use areas of new multi-family housing must also comply with ADA standards. More information is available from the Department of Justice ADA Standards.
• Kansas Disability Rights: While Kansas has adopted federal standards, you may find local building code information through your city's housing or code enforcement office.

Kansas follows the federal guidelines closely, so renters are protected by the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act alongside federal law.

What Features Must New Construction Include?

• Accessible entrances and routes into and through the unit
• Now-standard wider doorways and hallways for wheelchair access
• Reinforced walls for grab bars in bathrooms
• Accessible light switches, outlets, and climate controls
• Usable kitchen and bathrooms for individuals with mobility devices

These features make living spaces safer and more accessible to everyone. Property owners of newer multi-family buildings in Kansas are required to include these elements by law.

Your Right to Reasonable Accommodations

If you need modifications beyond the standard features, you can request a reasonable accommodation from your landlord. For example, installing grab bars or a wheelchair ramp may qualify, and landlords must consider your request unless it causes them undue hardship.

How to Request an Accommodation

There is no specific state-required form, but it is best to make your request in writing and keep a copy. The HUD Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Form provides a useful template you can use. Such forms help document your need and the action requested.

• Form Name: HUD Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Form
• When to Use: If you require modifications or policy adjustments in your rental due to a disability, use this form (or a similar written request) to document your request with your landlord.
• Where to Find: Download the sample form from HUD.

Kansas landlords must respond to reasonable accommodation requests in a timely manner. If you feel your request has been denied unfairly, you can file a complaint.

Filing a Discrimination Complaint

If you face discrimination or your accommodation request is denied without proper reason, you can file a complaint with state or federal agencies.

• Kansas Human Rights Commission (KHRC) handles rental discrimination cases and will investigate your complaint. Submit a housing discrimination complaint online with KHRC.
• HUD Form 903: Housing Discrimination Complaint
• When to Use: If your landlord refuses to make reasonable accommodations or violates accessibility laws, complete and submit HUD Form 903 to HUD or the KHRC.
• Find the form: HUD Form 903 (PDF)
• Where to File: Online, by mail, or by phone through the Kansas Human Rights Commission or the HUD Fair Housing Complaint Portal.

Who Oversees Rental Housing Issues in Kansas?

Rental issues and disputes—including accessibility complaints—are handled by the Kansas Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and, for legal tenancy rights, the judicial system of Kansas. The KHRC investigates and enforces anti-discrimination housing laws.

Key legal protections come from the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, which spells out landlord and tenant rights statewide.^[1]

Frequently Asked Questions: Accessible Units and Disability Rights

1. Do all new rental buildings in Kansas need to have accessible units?
   Multi-family buildings (four or more units) constructed after March 13, 1991 are required to meet federal accessibility standards under the Fair Housing Act.
2. Can I ask my landlord for additional accommodations in my unit?
   Yes. You have the right to request reasonable accommodations for your disability. Landlords must reply promptly and may only deny requests if they're unreasonable or cause undue hardship.
3. What if my landlord refuses my request for an accessible modification?
   You can file a complaint with the Kansas Human Rights Commission or HUD using their official online portals or form HUD-903.
4. Is my landlord allowed to charge me for modifications?
   Landlords may not charge increased rent or fees for providing required accessibility features, but you may be responsible for the cost of certain modifications unless the law requires the change for all new units.
5. Where can I find Kansas's official rental laws?
   See the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for the full text.

Key Takeaways for Kansas Renters

• New apartments in Kansas must include accessible features if built after 1991, per federal law.
• You’re entitled to request reasonable accommodations for a disability, using written or official forms.
• If your landlord doesn’t cooperate, agencies like KHRC and HUD can help enforce your rights.

Staying informed helps ensure your home meets your needs and that you can act decisively if your rights are not respected.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kansas Human Rights Commission (KHRC): File discrimination complaints or get information on housing rights.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Fair Housing: Federal protections and complaint forms.
• Kansas Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division: Protects against unfair rental practices.
• For legal questions or help with forms, you can also contact Kansas Legal Services.

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1. Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Accessibility Guidance
3. Kansas Human Rights Commission: File a Complaint
4. HUD Form 903: Housing Discrimination Complaint
5. Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Form (HUD)

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