Louisiana Accessible Apartment Rules for New Construction

Understanding your rights as a renter in Louisiana is important—especially if you or a household member needs an accessible apartment. Louisiana law and federal regulations set clear standards for accessibility in new buildings, helping ensure that people with disabilities have equal housing opportunities.

What Are "Accessible Units" in New Construction?

Accessible units are apartments with features designed for people with disabilities. These include barrier-free entrances, wider doorways, accessible bathrooms, reachable switches, and other design elements. The goal is to make housing safer and more comfortable for everyone.

Laws Governing Accessibility in Louisiana New Construction

There are two key legal sources addressing accessible apartments in Louisiana:

• Federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) accessibility standards
• Louisiana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

The Fair Housing Act requires all new multifamily housing (buildings with 4 or more units, built for first occupancy after March 13, 1991) to meet certain accessibility standards. This includes rental complexes across Louisiana.

Key Accessibility Requirements for New Construction

• At least one accessible entrance to the building
• Accessible routes into and through each unit
• Doors wide enough for wheelchairs (typically at least 32 inches)
• Accessible light switches, outlets, and thermostats
• Reinforced bathroom walls for grab bars
• Kitchens and bathrooms that a wheelchair user can access

If you believe your new apartment doesn’t meet these standards, you may have the right to request reasonable modifications or accommodations.

How to Request an Accessibility Accommodation or Modification

If you need your landlord to make changes—such as installing grab bars or allowing a wheelchair-accessible ramp—you can submit a formal request. Start by:

• Contacting your landlord in writing to explain your disability-related need
• Providing supporting documentation from a healthcare provider, if required

Landlords generally must approve reasonable accommodation requests, unless it would create significant hardship or fundamentally alter the housing provider’s operations.

Relevant Official Forms

• HUD Form 903.1 – Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
  • When to use: If your landlord refuses a reasonable accommodation, or if your new construction apartment does not meet accessibility requirements, you can file a discrimination complaint with HUD.
  • How to use: Download the form, fill in your details, and submit by mail, email, or online. For example, if your landlord won’t install a required accessibility feature, provide details on the form and attach any correspondence or documentation.
  • Access the HUD Form 903.1 here
• Louisiana HUD Field Office Contact
  • For assistance or to learn about local complaint handling, contact the Louisiana HUD Field Office.

Where to Turn for Enforcement and Dispute Resolution

In Louisiana, residential tenancy disputes are typically handled by local courts, such as Parish Courts or City Courts. While there is no separate statewide tribunal for tenant issues, complaints about accessibility or discrimination should be directed to:

• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity
• Local city or parish government housing offices

The Louisiana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act sets out state-level renter rights and responsibilities.

Steps for Renters Seeking Accessibility in New Construction Apartments

Whether you’re searching for an accessible apartment or requesting an accommodation, these actions can help protect your rights:

• Ask to see floor plans for accessibility features (such as accessible routes, wide doorways, and bathroom layouts)
• Submit any requests for modifications or accommodations in writing to your landlord or property manager
• If denied or ignored, consider filing a complaint with HUD using HUD Form 903.1
• Reach out to the Louisiana HUD Field Office or a local disability rights agency

Most new apartment complexes must comply with the Fair Housing Act’s accessibility standards. If you have questions or are experiencing issues, official legal support is available.

FAQs: Accessible Apartments in New Louisiana Buildings

1. What types of buildings must offer accessible apartments in Louisiana?
   All new multifamily buildings with four or more units, built and first occupied after March 13, 1991, must follow federal accessibility standards.
2. Can I request additional modifications if my needs are not met?
   Yes. Renters have the right to request reasonable accommodations or modifications, but may sometimes be responsible for restoration costs upon moving out.
3. What should I do if my accommodation request is denied?
   You can file a discrimination complaint with HUD using HUD Form 903.1, or contact a local housing office for guidance.
4. Is my landlord allowed to increase the rent if I request an accessible unit?
   Landlords cannot charge extra rent for providing required accessible features under the Fair Housing Act.
5. Where can I find more information on accessibility laws?
   Visit the HUD Accessibility Requirements resource page for federal standards and guidance.

Key Takeaways for Louisiana Renters

• New construction of multifamily complexes must include accessible units and follow federal standards.
• Renters can request modifications or accommodations to meet disability-related needs.
• Support and official complaint forms are available from HUD and local resources.

Remember, documenting your requests and knowing your rights is your best protection as a renter seeking reasonable accessibility in Louisiana.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Intake – For discrimination complaints
• Louisiana HUD Field Office – Local federal assistance
• Louisiana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Louisiana Department of Health - Disability Services

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1. HUD Fair Housing Accessibility Guidelines
2. Louisiana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
3. HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Process

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