Parking Rights for Disabled Renters in New Hampshire

Accessible parking is a crucial accommodation for tenants with disabilities. If you rent in New Hampshire and need a parking space that meets your needs, it's important to understand your legal rights and the process for requesting reasonable accommodations. This guide will walk you through the laws, forms, and practical steps for securing accessible parking at your rental property.

Your Legal Rights to Parking Accommodations in New Hampshire

Both federal and New Hampshire laws protect renters with disabilities who require parking accommodations. The key laws include the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the New Hampshire Law Against Discrimination (RSA 354-A)¹. Under these laws:

• Landlords must provide reasonable accommodations for tenants with physical or mental disabilities, including changes to parking rules or spaces as needed.
• Reasonable accommodations could include reserving a parking space near your unit, allowing use of an assigned or accessible spot, or modifying curbs and signage.
• Landlords cannot charge extra for granting a reasonable accommodation.

Requests for accessible parking must be considered unless granting them would impose an undue financial or administrative burden or fundamentally alter the property.

Requesting a Parking Accommodation: The Process

The law doesn't require you to use a special form, but it's best to make your accommodation request in writing. You can:

• Write a simple letter or email to your landlord/manager stating your disability-related need for accessible parking.
• Ask your healthcare provider for a supporting letter if needed.

The New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights provides resources and complaint forms if your request is denied. Find more guidance from the NH Commission for Human Rights: Filing a Complaint.

Official Forms: New Hampshire Disability Discrimination Complaint Form

• Form Name: NH Commission for Human Rights Discrimination Complaint Form
• When to Use: If your landlord refuses your parking request or retaliates against you, file a complaint with the NH Commission for Human Rights within 180 days of the incident.
• How to Use: Complete, sign, and submit the form describing the discrimination. Attach any supporting documents, such as your request and the response.
• Access the Discrimination Complaint Form

What Counts as a Reasonable Parking Modification?

Common reasonable modifications for parking might involve:

• Assigning a closer or accessible space
• Reserving a space specifically for your use
• Allowing temporary use of restricted parking areas (e.g., visitor spaces) for disability reasons
• Modifying signage or curb cuts to make parking accessible

Landlords must evaluate each request individually and respond promptly. Denying a reasonable request without justification may be unlawful under RSA 354-A.

Who Oversees Landlord-Tenant Issues?

While routine landlord-tenant matters are often handled by local district courts, disability discrimination and reasonable accommodation complaints are handled by the New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights (NH HRC). The NH HRC investigates claims and may help resolve disputes involving disability accommodations in housing.

How to File for a Disability Parking Accommodation in New Hampshire

• Step 1: Make a written request to your landlord or property manager, describing your disability and your need for accessible parking.
• Step 2: Attach a letter from your medical provider if possible, explaining why accessible parking is necessary due to your condition.
• Step 3: If denied or ignored, contact the NH Commission for Human Rights and submit the official complaint form.
• Step 4: If you need further assistance, reach out to disability advocacy organizations or seek legal help.

This process helps protect your rights while providing a clear record of your request and any responses.

FAQ: Parking Accommodations for Tenants with Disabilities in New Hampshire

1. Can my landlord charge me extra for an accessible parking space?
   No, landlords cannot charge additional fees for granting a reasonable parking accommodation related to your disability.
2. What if my landlord ignores or denies my accommodation request?
   You can file a discrimination complaint with the New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights within 180 days of the denial.
3. Do I need a doctor's note for my parking accommodation?
   It's not always required, but a note from your healthcare provider can strengthen your request and clarify your needs.
4. How long does my landlord have to grant the accommodation?
   There is no fixed deadline, but landlords must respond promptly and should not delay the process without reason.
5. If I move apartments, can I request a new parking accommodation?
   Yes. Each rental is separate, and you may repeat the request process at your new property if needed.

Conclusion: What New Hampshire Renters Should Remember

• You have a legal right to request reasonable parking accommodations if you are a tenant with a disability.
• Always put your request in writing and keep careful records.
• If denied, the New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights is there to help protect your housing rights.

Knowing your rights and the correct process makes it easier to access the accommodations you need in your rental home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• NH Commission for Human Rights – Handles housing discrimination complaints and provides complaint forms
• NH Housing Finance Authority – General housing resources for renters
• NH Department of Health & Human Services – Disability Services – Support for residents with disabilities
• U.S. Department of Justice – Fair Housing Act Overview

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1. See NH Law Against Discrimination (RSA 354-A)
2. See Federal Fair Housing Act
3. Learn about NH Commission for Human Rights procedures

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