Nebraska Renters: Who Pays for Accessibility Modifications?

Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Nebraska published: June 21, 2025 Flag of Nebraska

Navigating the world of accessibility and disability accommodations as a renter in Nebraska can be confusing, especially when it comes to paying for needed modifications. Understanding your rights, your landlord’s responsibilities, and the steps to request changes ensures a smoother renting experience. This article breaks down Nebraska laws and federal requirements for accessibility modifications, helping you understand who pays, what’s allowed, and how to advocate for yourself.

Understanding Accessibility Modifications for Nebraska Renters

Accessibility modifications are changes to a rental unit or building intended to make it usable for people with disabilities. Common examples include installing ramps, widening doorways, or adding grab bars. Both state and federal law protect your right to make reasonable modifications if you have a qualifying disability.

Key Laws Governing Accessibility in Rental Housing

Who Pays for Reasonable Modifications?

Generally, if you are a renter with a disability in Nebraska:

  • You may request reasonable modifications to help you use and enjoy your rental home.
  • Under the Nebraska Fair Housing Act, the renter is responsible for paying for the actual modification (like installing a grab bar), unless the property receives federal financial assistance.
  • Landlords can require you to restore the unit to its original condition (reasonable wear and tear excepted) when you move out, at your cost.

If your building was constructed with federal funding, different rules may apply. In those cases, landlords could be responsible for paying for some or all modifications—check with your property manager or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Nebraska office for federal project details.[3]

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Rental Modification Process and Communication

It's important to make your request for a reasonable modification in writing. Clearly describe what change you need (for example, a ramp at the entrance or lowering light switches) and explain how it helps with your disability.

  • Landlords cannot unreasonably deny a valid request, but may ask you to provide professional verification of your disability if it is not obvious.
  • They may require detailed plans or proof the modification will be safe and professionally installed.
  • Landlords may ask for a deposit to cover the cost of restoring the unit (for example, removing grab bars) after you move out, if the change isn’t permanent or will affect future tenants.
Consider using clear, businesslike communication and saving all requests and responses as records for future reference.

Relevant Forms for Nebraska Renters

  • Reasonable Accommodation/Modification Request (No Official Nebraska Statewide Form): While Nebraska does not provide a statewide official form, many landlords have their own. You can also use sample request letters provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). To use: send a written request that includes the modification needed and a statement explaining your disability-related need.
  • Complaint Form to Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC): If your request is denied, you may file a housing discrimination complaint. Access the NEOC Housing Discrimination Complaint Form. Complete and submit if you believe your rights were violated (instructions here).

Where to Get Help: Nebraska’s Housing Tribunal

The main body handling rental disputes—including accommodation issues—is the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC). They enforce the state Fair Housing Act and handle discrimination complaints about accessibility for renters.

What Counts as a “Reasonable” Modification?

  • Modifications should be reasonably necessary (not just desirable) and not fundamentally alter the nature of the housing provider’s operation.
  • Examples: ramps, lowering counters, grab bars, visual fire alarms. Requests for expensive major construction (e.g., adding an elevator) often exceed what the law deems reasonable.

Summary: In most cases, Nebraska landlords must allow reasonable accessibility changes, but renters usually pay for them. Restoration rules may apply when you move out, unless both parties agree otherwise in writing.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can my landlord deny my accessibility modification request?
    A landlord can't unreasonably deny a request for a reasonable modification if you have a qualifying disability. However, they can suggest reasonable alternatives or request restoration deposits, as long as it’s justified.
  2. Do I need to use licensed contractors for modifications?
    Landlords may require that any work (like installing ramps) is performed by licensed, insured professionals to ensure safety and compliance with building codes.
  3. What documents should I include with my modification request?
    Often, a written letter outlining your request and, if necessary, verification from a medical professional will suffice. Save copies for your records.
  4. Who pays to return the rental to its original condition?
    The renter is responsible for restoration, unless otherwise agreed. Landlords may require a deposit up front for these costs.
  5. Where can I file a complaint if my rights are violated?
    You may file a complaint with the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC) using their official housing discrimination complaint process.

Conclusion: What Nebraska Renters Need to Remember

  • You have the right to request reasonable accessibility modifications if you have a disability.
  • In most cases, you will pay for the modifications, and may need to restore the unit when moving out.
  • If denied or treated unfairly, support and complaint resources are available through the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission.

Being informed and documenting your requests strengthens your position and helps ensure your rental needs are met.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. Nebraska Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
  2. Nebraska Fair Housing Act
  3. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Nebraska

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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