Who Covers Accessibility Modification Costs in Michigan Rentals?

Living with a disability or mobility challenge shouldn't prevent you from feeling safe and comfortable in your Michigan rental home. If you need accessibility modifications—such as grab bars, ramps, or widened doorways—it’s important to know who is responsible for the costs and how to request needed accommodations under Michigan law. This guide explains accessibility rights and responsibilities for renters and landlords, steps for making requests, and what official support is available.

Your Rights to Accessibility in Michigan Rentals

Michigan renters with disabilities are protected by both federal and state fair housing laws and the Michigan Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act^[1]. These laws require landlords to make reasonable accommodations and allow reasonable modifications, so residents with disabilities have equal opportunity to use and enjoy their home.

Reasonable accommodations are changes to rules or procedures (e.g., allowing a service animal), while reasonable modifications are structural or physical changes to the dwelling or common areas (e.g., installing a ramp).

Who Pays for Accessibility Modifications?

Under federal law (the Fair Housing Act) and Michigan law, landlords:

• Must allow renters with disabilities to make reasonable modifications to their unit or building’s common areas
• Aren’t required to pay for the modifications in most cases—the renter generally bears the cost
• Can require the renter to restore the property to its original state when they move out (excluding modifications that do not affect future residents)

If the rental building receives federal financial assistance (such as through Section 8 or other HUD programs), the landlord may be responsible for paying for accessibility changes^[2]. In private housing without federal funding, the cost of modifications—like adding grab bars or a ramp—is usually the renter’s responsibility.

What Modifications Require Landlord Permission?

Before making any modifications, renters must get written consent from their landlord. Landlords can request:

• A description of the proposed modification
• A licensed contractor to complete the work (if required by building code)
• Restoration to the previous condition upon move-out (for interior changes)

Requesting Accessibility Modifications: Forms & Steps

There is no single statewide form, but many Michigan landlords or housing agencies may request a “Reasonable Accommodation/Modification Request” form. This is often available through the Michigan Department of Civil Rights or your local housing authority.

• Reasonable Accommodation/Modification Request Form (sample):
  Use this form to request permission to modify your unit or make another accommodation relating to your disability.
  Practical example: If you need grab bars in the bathroom, submit the form along with a doctor’s note explaining the need.
  Find a sample Reasonable Accommodation/Modification Request Form via the Michigan Department of Civil Rights.

You are not required to disclose your specific disability; you only need to document the need for the modification unless the need is obvious.

For disputes or discrimination issues (for example, if your landlord refuses a reasonable modification without a valid reason), Michigan renters can file a housing discrimination complaint with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, the state tribunal for these complaints.

Key Michigan Housing Law and Where to Get Help

• Michigan Residential Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act: See the official legislation here^[3].
• The Michigan Department of Civil Rights handles tenant discrimination and accessibility complaints.

When navigating requests for disability accommodations, the Michigan Department of Civil Rights and HUD are the official agencies to assist renters and mediate disputes.

1. Does my landlord have to pay for accessibility modifications to my Michigan rental?
   In most cases, you as the renter pay the cost of reasonable modifications, unless the dwelling receives federal financial assistance—then the landlord may be responsible.
   
2. How do I request an accessibility modification in my rental unit?
   Put your request in writing, use a Reasonable Accommodation/Modification Request Form if available, describe your need, and submit it to your landlord.
   
3. Can my landlord deny my accessibility modification request?
   Landlords may deny only if the modification isn’t reasonable, would cause significant damage, or poses health/safety issues. They cannot deny just because you have a disability.
   
4. Do I have to return the property to its original state when I move out?
   If the modification is inside your unit and would affect the next renter, the landlord can request restoration—but not for exterior or common area changes unless they specifically request it.
   
5. What if my landlord refuses to allow modifications?
   You can file a complaint with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, who will investigate and may offer mediation or take enforcement action.

Key Takeaways for Michigan Renters

• Renters usually pay for modifications in private units, unless the property receives federal funding.
• Always get written landlord permission before making accessibility changes.
• The Michigan Department of Civil Rights is your resource if your accommodation rights are denied.

Understanding your rights as a renter and knowing where to find help are essential steps toward ensuring your rental home meets your accessibility needs.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan Department of Civil Rights: File discrimination or accessibility complaints, request help, or learn about disability rights.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Disability Rights: Federal protections and guidance on accessibility for renters.
• Michigan State Housing Development Authority: Housing resources and contact for affordable or accessible rental units.

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1. [1] See the Michigan Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act
2. [2] HUD Disability Rights - Modifications and Accommodations Fact Sheet
3. [3] Michigan Residential Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act

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