Pennsylvania Accessible Unit Laws for New Apartment Construction

Finding an accessible apartment can be challenging, especially if you have a disability or mobility needs. Pennsylvania follows both state and federal rules to make sure new multifamily housing is accessible for everyone. Understanding these requirements can help you know what to look for and how to request the accommodations you need.

What Makes a Unit Accessible in New Pennsylvania Construction?

In Pennsylvania, new apartment buildings with four or more units built after March 13, 1991 must comply with specific accessibility standards under the federal Fair Housing Act. These standards require a certain percentage of units—and shared spaces—to be accessible to people with physical disabilities.

• Accessible entrance: At least one accessible building entrance on an accessible route
• Accessible and usable public and common-use areas: Hallways, laundry rooms, mailboxes, and recreational areas must be accessible
• Doors wide enough for wheelchairs: Interior doors must allow passage by people using wheelchairs
• Accessible routes into and through the dwelling: No steps or barriers from the entrance to all rooms in the unit
• Accessible light switches and outlets: Controls must be at reachable heights
• Reinforced bathroom walls: For future installation of grab bars
• Kitchens and bathrooms usable by wheelchair users: Sufficient space to maneuver

How Many Accessible Units Are Required?

The exact number depends on the size and design of the building. The Pennsylvania Accessibility Standards follow the federal guidelines:

• All ground-floor units in elevator-less buildings must be accessible
• All units must be accessible in buildings with elevators

Property owners must follow both federal Fair Housing Act rules and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act. Local building codes may also require stricter standards.

Requesting Disability Accommodations in Your Apartment

Even if a unit isn't fully accessible, you have the right to request reasonable modifications or accommodations. For example, you might request a ramp, grab bars, or different features to make your apartment livable. Your landlord generally can't refuse your request if it's reasonable and doesn't cause undue hardship.

How to Request an Accommodation or Modification

• Put your request in writing—it doesn't need to be a special form, but documenting your request helps protect your rights.
• Explain your disability-related need for the accommodation or modification.
• Be specific about what you're asking for (e.g., grab bars installed in the shower).

If your request is denied, or if you experience resistance, you can file a complaint with the appropriate state agency.

Key Official Forms for Accessible Housing Requests

• Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire
  Use this form to start a housing discrimination complaint if you believe your accessible housing rights have been violated.
  Download the PHRC Housing Intake Questionnaire
  Example: If your landlord refuses to allow you to install a wheelchair ramp, fill out this form and submit it to PHRC.

Where to File a Disability-Related Housing Complaint

Residential tenancy complaints involving accessibility should be directed to the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC). The PHRC investigates discrimination claims related to disability accommodation in housing.

Your Legal Rights: Relevant Laws and Agencies

• Federal Fair Housing Act
• Pennsylvania Human Relations Act, 43 P.S. §§ 951-963
• Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC)
• Pennsylvania Accessibility Standards

Both federal and state laws protect renters from discrimination based on disability in Pennsylvania. If you think your rights are being violated, contacting the PHRC is an important first step.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which buildings must have accessible units in Pennsylvania?
   New multifamily buildings of four or more units built after March 13, 1991 must include accessible units.
2. Can I request my landlord to modify my unit to make it more accessible?
   Yes. You have the right to request reasonable modifications or accommodations. Your request should be related to your disability and made in writing.
3. Is there a form to file a complaint about accessibility issues?
   Yes, use the PHRC Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire to start your complaint.
4. Does my landlord have to cover the cost of accessibility modifications?
   In many cases, renters are responsible for paying for physical modifications, but owners must allow reasonable changes unless they cause undue hardship.
5. Where can I get help if my request is denied?
   Contact the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission for assistance and investigation.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission — File housing discrimination or accessibility complaints
• Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency – Accessible Housing Resources and ADA
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Portal — If your issue is federal or crosses state lines

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1. [1] HUD Disability Rights in Housing
2. [2] Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC)
3. [3] Pennsylvania Human Relations Act, 43 P.S. §§ 951-963
4. [4] Pennsylvania Accessibility Standards (PDF)

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