Who Pays for Accessibility Modifications in NJ Rentals?

If you are a renter with a disability in New Jersey, you have important rights under both state and federal law. Understanding who pays for accessibility modifications—like grab bars, ramps, or widened doorways—can help you plan and advocate for a safe, comfortable home. This guide explains the key rules, what forms you may need, and where to get help.

Your Right to Accessibility in New Jersey Rentals

Both the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) protect renters from discrimination because of disability. Landlords generally must allow “reasonable modifications” to make a rental home accessible, if you or someone in your household needs them due to a disability.^[1]

Who Pays for Accessibility Modifications?

• Tenants are responsible for the cost of most accessibility modifications, unless the building receives federal funding (like public housing), in which case landlords may have to pay.
• Landlords cannot refuse permission for reasonable modifications, but they can require that work meets professional standards.
• Landlords can also ask renters to restore the property to its original condition when moving out, but only if the changes would affect renting to someone without a disability.
• If you live in an apartment built after 1991, many accessibility features must already be present by law.

Typical Accessibility Modifications Allowed

• Installing ramps or handrails
• Lowering doorknobs or cabinets
• Widening doorways
• Adding grab bars in bathrooms
• Installing visual or tactile alarms

Most of these changes can be requested, but the renter usually pays in standard, privately-owned housing.

How to Request a Modification: Forms and Process

Requesting permission for a modification is your right, but it’s a good idea to put your request in writing. The process is straightforward:

• Submit a written request to your landlord that clearly describes the change needed and why you need it due to a disability.
• Attach proof or documentation if required (for example, a doctor’s note or disability verification).

You may use a simple written letter, or you can adapt the suggested Sample Reasonable Modification Request Form provided by the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights. While there’s no official numbered form for all renters, this template is widely accepted by landlords.^[2]

Returning Your Unit to Original Condition

If the modification would make the home less appealing to future renters who don’t need it, landlords can request that you restore it when you move out. It’s a good idea to discuss and agree, in writing, about what will or will not need to be restored when your lease ends.

Relevant Laws and Where Disputes Are Handled

• The Fair Housing Act (FHA) governs disability rights nationwide.
• The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination expands on federal protections.
• The New Jersey Truth-in-Renting Act provides state-specific rental guidance.
• If you have a dispute about your rights, complaints are handled by the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR).

Contacting DCR is a key step if you feel your landlord has violated your rights or refused a reasonable modification.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord refuse a reasonable modification?
   No, New Jersey landlords must allow reasonable modifications under the law, but you generally pay for the changes. They can ask for professional work and possibly restoration on move-out.
2. Is there any financial help for paying for accessibility modifications?
   Some local programs or nonprofits may offer assistance, especially for low-income renters. The state does not require the landlord to fund modifications in most cases.
3. What official agency handles complaints if my landlord denies my request?
   The New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) investigates housing discrimination complaints, including denial of reasonable modifications.
4. Must modifications be removed when I move out?
   You only need to restore the unit if the change affects the next renter’s use and the landlord has requested restoration as a condition of approval.
5. Can I be evicted for asking for a modification?
   No, retaliation for requesting a disability accommodation or modification is illegal in New Jersey.

Key Takeaways

• Renters pay for most accessibility modifications unless the building has federal funding.
• Always make modification requests in writing and negotiate restoration terms before work begins.
• If you encounter discrimination, the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights can help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Jersey Division on Civil Rights – Complaint Filing Page: File a discrimination complaint or seek free guidance about disability rights.
• New Jersey Department of Community Affairs – Local Code Offices: Advice on building codes and modifications.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Fair Housing Information
• NJ Division of Disability Services: Additional guidance for renters with disabilities.

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1. See Fair Housing Act and New Jersey Law Against Discrimination.
2. Find the state’s Sample Request Form at Sample Reasonable Modification Request (NJ DCR).

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