Nevada Accessible Unit Rules for New Apartment Buildings

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

If you or a loved one have a disability and are renting or seeking to rent in Nevada, it’s important to understand your rights to accessible housing in new construction. Nevada law, together with federal protections, ensures that newly built apartments must include accessible units and features that remove barriers for people with disabilities. This article explains what new apartments must provide, important forms to know, and where you can get help.

What Are Accessible Housing Requirements in Nevada?

Accessible housing means apartments or rental units designed—and built—to be usable by people with physical disabilities, such as mobility or vision impairments.

Who Sets the Rules?

These rules ensure equal opportunity to rent and live independently.

Accessible Unit Requirements for New Apartments

In Nevada, any new apartment building with four or more units—built for first occupancy after March 13, 1991—must have accessible design elements. These apply to all ground-floor units (or, in elevator buildings, all units).

  • Accessible entry routes—no steps at main entrances
  • Doorways and hallways wide enough for wheelchairs
  • Accessible light switches, thermostats, electrical outlets, and usable bathrooms/kitchens
  • Reinforced bathroom walls for future grab bar installation
  • “Usable” common and public spaces (e.g., community rooms, laundry rooms)

For details, see HUD’s page on Accessibility Requirements for Buildings.

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Requesting Changes: Reasonable Accommodation and Modification

Sometimes, you may need additional changes (“modifications”) or rule exceptions (“accommodations”) beyond what is already built in. Here’s how Nevada renters can ask for them:

  • Reasonable Accommodation—A change to rules, policies, or services so you can use your home (like a reserved parking space).
  • Reasonable Modification—A physical change to your apartment or building (like adding a ramp or grab bars).

Official Forms You May Need in Nevada

While Nevada does not have a single statewide form for requesting accessibility changes, you should submit your request in writing to your landlord or property manager. Below are relevant forms and examples:

  • Reasonable Accommodation/Modification Request (Sample Form)
    • Used for: Formally asking your landlord for an accessibility change or accommodation.
    • How to Use: Fill out your request and give a copy to your landlord or property manager. You do not need to disclose your specific diagnosis.
    • Sample Form from HUD
  • Nevada Equal Rights Commission (NERC) Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
    • Used for: If you believe your rights were violated (e.g., denied an accessible unit or reasonable modification).
    • How to Use: Complete and submit the complaint form to NERC within 1 year of the incident.
    • NERC Housing Discrimination Complaint Form

Keep a copy of any form or letter you give to your landlord. This documentation may help if a dispute arises later.

What If a Landlord Does Not Comply?

Landlords and property owners must follow these accessibility rules. If you believe your rights have been violated or a new building is not compliant, you can:

If you face an urgent accessibility barrier, communicate with your landlord in writing as soon as possible and consider seeking advice from a local fair housing organization.

FAQ: Accessible Units in New Nevada Apartments

  1. Which kinds of buildings must have accessible units in Nevada?
    Any new apartment building with four or more units built after March 13, 1991, must meet accessibility requirements. In elevator buildings, all units must comply. In non-elevator buildings, ground-floor units are included.
  2. Can my landlord deny my accessibility request?
    No, landlords cannot deny reasonable accommodation or modification requests unless the request is unreasonable or would cause undue hardship. They must engage in a discussion with you.
  3. How do I prove my need for an accommodation?
    Usually, a short note from a medical provider explaining you need the accommodation for your disability is enough. You do not need to share your medical diagnosis.
  4. Who enforces accessibility laws in Nevada rentals?
    The Nevada Equal Rights Commission (NERC) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) both have enforcement authority for these rules.
  5. What if my building is older than 1991?
    Older buildings have different requirements. However, you still have the right to request reasonable modifications, even if the property is not required to be fully accessible.

Key Takeaways for Renters

  • New apartment buildings in Nevada (four+ units) must include accessible features by law.
  • Renters can request additional accommodations or modifications when needed.
  • If denied, you can file a formal complaint with NERC or HUD, using official forms.

Understanding your rights can help you secure and enjoy a safe, accessible rental home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 118, Fair Housing
  2. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Fair Housing Act Design Manual
  3. Nevada Equal Rights Commission — Housing Discrimination Complaints

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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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