What should I do if my new apartment in Michigan isn’t accessible as required?

Notify your landlord in writing about the issue. If it is not fixed, you can file a complaint with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights or seek help from the Michigan District Court.

Can a landlord deny a reasonable accommodation request?

Landlords may only deny requests that are costly, unreasonable, or would fundamentally change the property. Most medically-supported requests must be reviewed seriously.

Are accessible units reserved only for people with disabilities in Michigan?

While accessible units are designed primarily for people with disabilities, anyone can rent them unless there's a waitlist or policy prioritizing disabled renters.

How can I file a discrimination complaint regarding accessibility?

You can file a Housing Discrimination Complaint with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights. Include specific details and documents supporting your claim.

What building codes set accessibility standards in Michigan?

The Michigan Building Code and the federal 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design set accessibility requirements for new apartments and public areas.

New Construction Accessibility Rules for Michigan Renters

Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Michigan published: June 21, 2025

Michigan renters living with disabilities—or those seeking accessible rentals—should know that both federal and state laws establish clear requirements for accessible units in new residential buildings. These rules make sure new apartments are inclusive, safe, and usable for everyone.

Which Laws Cover Accessible Housing in Michigan?

In Michigan, renters are protected by both federal law—like the Fair Housing Act—and state requirements through the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act¹. For construction standards, Michigan follows the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design and the Michigan Building Code. These rules set the minimum number of units that must be accessible in new apartment buildings and outline the features required in those units.

What Makes a Unit 'Accessible'?

Accessible units are specially designed for people with various mobility or sensory disabilities. Some key features include:

Step-free entryways and routes
Wider doorways and hallways
Lowered controls (light switches, thermostats)
Adapted kitchens and bathrooms (like roll-under sinks and grab bars)

For new multifamily buildings (with four or more units, built after March 13, 1991), these features are not optional—they're required by law.²

How Many Accessible Units Must New Buildings Provide?

The number depends on the building's size and type. In general:

All ground-floor units and units served by an elevator in new buildings must be built to accessibility standards.
For federally funded buildings, additional requirements may apply under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Key Accessible Design Requirements in Michigan

At least one accessible route from public site arrival points to each accessible entrance.
Accessible public and common areas, including laundry and mailrooms.
Doors and hallways wide enough for wheelchairs.
Bathrooms and kitchens designed for maneuverability and universal use.

These standards help make sure everyone can enjoy safe and equal access to housing.

Requesting Additional Accommodations

If your disability requires a change to your unit or common areas (like installing a ramp or grab bars), federal and state laws* allow you to request a reasonable accommodation or modification. Landlords must consider these requests and cannot refuse without good reason.

Practical Renter Example: Making an Accommodation Request

If you have a mobility impairment and need a grab bar installed in your bathroom, you can make a written request to your landlord. If you live in a building covered by the Fair Housing Act, your landlord is required to allow modifications at your expense (unless the building gets federal funding—in which case the landlord often pays).

Relevant Forms for Michigan Renters

Request for Reasonable Accommodation or Modification (no standard statewide form, but many use the sample provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)):
- Sample Accommodation Request Letter
- How it's used: File this with your landlord or property manager if you need changes to your unit or their policies due to a disability. Always keep a copy for your records.
Michigan Department of Civil Rights Housing Discrimination Complaint Form:
- Official Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
- How it's used: If your landlord denies your request for an accommodation, use this form to file a discrimination complaint with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights.

If you’re unsure how to request an accommodation, you can contact the Michigan Department of Civil Rights for guidance at Michigan Department of Civil Rights.

Michigan's Housing Tribunal and Relevant Laws

The main agency for rental disputes in Michigan is the Michigan District Court - Landlord/Tenant Division, where eviction, repair, and accessibility cases are heard.³ For discrimination and accessibility-specific complaints, you can also file with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights.

Key legislation:

FAQ: Michigan Renters and Accessible Housing

What should I do if my new apartment in Michigan isn’t accessible as required?
If your unit or common areas aren't accessible as required by law, notify your landlord in writing. If the issue isn't addressed, you may file a complaint with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights or seek help from the Michigan District Court - Landlord/Tenant Division.
Can a landlord deny my reasonable accommodation request?
Landlords can only deny requests that impose a significant financial or administrative burden, or fundamentally change the property's operation. Most requests supported by medical need must be considered seriously.
Are accessible units only for people with disabilities in Michigan?
Accessible units are designed primarily for those with disabilities, but anyone may legally rent them unless there is a waitlist or legal requirement to prioritize renters with disabilities.
How do I file a discrimination complaint for accessibility issues?
Submit the Housing Discrimination Complaint Form to the Michigan Department of Civil Rights. Include details on the denied accommodation or inaccessible feature—attach supporting documents if possible.
Which building codes set Michigan's accessibility rules?
The Michigan Building Code and federal 2010 ADA Standards establish these requirements for new construction and public areas in residential buildings.

Key Takeaways for Michigan Renters

New apartment buildings in Michigan must meet strict legal accessibility standards.
You have the right to request changes or modifications for your disability needs.
Use official forms and state resources if your rights are denied—support is available.

In summary, knowing your rights on accessible housing empowers you to advocate for safe and comfortable living arrangements. If you face challenges, Michigan offers several official avenues for help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

See the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act for Michigan's main fair housing statute.
Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988, 42 U.S.C. 3601 et seq. and 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design.
Residential tenancy disputes generally fall under the Michigan District Court - Landlord/Tenant Division.