Minnesota New Construction: Accessible Housing Rules for Renters

Finding an accessible apartment in Minnesota can be challenging for renters with disabilities. Knowing your rights regarding accessible unit requirements in newly constructed rental housing helps ensure you have a safe and inclusive living environment. This guide explains Minnesota's standards, important forms, and how to seek accommodations confidently.

Understanding Accessible Unit Requirements in New Minnesota Construction

In Minnesota, both state and federal laws set clear rules for accessibility in new multifamily rental buildings. These standards aim to remove barriers for individuals with mobility, hearing, or vision disabilities.

Which Buildings Must Meet Accessibility Rules?

• Covered multi-family dwellings: Buildings with four or more units built for first occupancy after March 13, 1991, fall under accessibility rules.
• Buildings with elevators: All units must be accessible or adaptable.
• Buildings without elevators: Ground floor units must be accessible or adaptable.

These rules are enforced under the federal Fair Housing Act and Minnesota’s Human Rights Act (Minnesota Statutes § 363A.11).

What Must Be Included in Accessible Units?

• Accessible routes to and within units (e.g., ramps, wide doorways)
• Reinforcements in bathrooms for grab bars
• Accessible light switches, thermostats, outlets, and environmental controls
• Kitchens and bathrooms usable by people in wheelchairs

Full technical specifications can be found in the HUD Fair Housing Design Manual and the Minnesota State Building Code, Accessibility Requirements.

Your Rights as a Renter with Disabilities

If you have a disability, you are entitled to request additional reasonable accommodations or modifications to your unit—even beyond minimum code requirements. Landlords are generally required to allow these changes, although you might be responsible for costs in privately-funded housing.

Key Official Forms You May Need

• Disability Accommodation Request Form (MDHR)
  When to use: If you require a modification or accommodation (e.g., lowering counters, installing grab bars) in your unit and your landlord has not already provided it.
  Example: A renter in a new building uses the form after discovering the bathroom door is too narrow for their wheelchair.
  Download from the Minnesota Department of Human Rights
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (903-1)
  When to use: If you believe your rental building, including a new construction, isn’t following accessibility requirements or your request for modification is wrongly denied.
  Example: A tenant finds their entire building lacks ramps or elevator access and files this complaint.
  Download from HUD

Relevant State Tribunal for Tenancy Problems

If disputes about reasonable accommodations or accessibility standards arise, you can seek help in court (typically local District Court housing calendars in Minnesota). For discrimination issues, the Minnesota Department of Human Rights investigates and enforces state law.

How to Request Accessibility Modifications or File a Complaint

• Identify what accommodation you need
• Complete a Disability Accommodation Request Form and give it to your landlord
• If your request is denied, appeal in writing and seek legal help if needed
• If denial persists or there is clear noncompliance, file a complaint with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights or HUD

Seeking assistance as early as possible increases your chances of a positive outcome.

FAQ: Accessible Unit Requirements in New Minnesota Construction

1. Are all new apartment buildings in Minnesota required to have accessible units?
   Not all, but any multifamily building with four or more units built after March 13, 1991, must meet specific accessibility rules under federal and state law.
2. Can I ask my landlord to make additional changes beyond the building code?
   Yes. You have the right to request reasonable modifications or accommodations. Landlords must consider these requests—especially if they relate to your disability.
3. What should I do if my accessibility request is denied?
   You can file a complaint with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights or HUD if you believe your rights are violated.
4. Is there a cost for asking for modifications?
   In most privately funded housing, the renter pays for modifications. However, publicly funded buildings may cover costs. Always confirm the policy with your landlord.
5. What legal protections apply to accessibility in Minnesota rentals?
   The Fair Housing Act and the Minnesota Human Rights Act both provide robust protections against disability discrimination.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Minnesota Renters

• New multifamily buildings in Minnesota must meet strict accessibility requirements.
• As a renter, you may request further accommodation or modification to your home.
• Use official complaint forms and reach out to government agencies if your rights are denied.

Understanding these requirements empowers you to secure and maintain an accessible living space.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Department of Human Rights – file discrimination complaints and get advice
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process
• LawHelpMN: Your Rights Against Discrimination in Housing
• For rental disputes: Minnesota District Courts (Housing Calendar), check your local court location

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1. See: Fair Housing Act, U.S. Department of Justice
2. Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry — Minnesota Statutes § 326B.106: Building Codes and Minnesota Human Rights Act
3. HUD Title VIII – Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968
4. Minnesota Department of Human Rights forms: Disability Accommodation Request
5. Complaint forms and process: HUD Housing Discrimination Process

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