Which buildings in Utah must have accessible units?

All new multifamily buildings with four or more units built after March 13, 1991 must provide accessible features in ground-floor units and any units served by elevators.

Can I request modifications to my apartment if the building is already accessible?

Yes. Even if your apartment meets basic standards, you may request further reasonable modifications such as installing bathroom grab bars.

Who pays for accessibility modifications in Utah rentals?

Renters usually pay for modifications to private units, unless living in subsidized housing. Landlords cover changes in public or common areas.

How do I file a complaint about inaccessible housing?

Complete the Utah Fair Housing Complaint Form or HUD Form 903.1 and submit it to the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division or HUD.

What is the deadline for filing a housing discrimination complaint?

Fair housing complaints in Utah must be filed within one year of the alleged discrimination.

Utah New Construction Accessibility Requirements for Renters

Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utah published: June 21, 2025

Finding suitable housing can be challenging for renters with disabilities. Utah law, in line with federal rules, sets specific requirements for new buildings to include accessible features and units. Understanding these rules helps renters know their rights and ensures landlords meet their legal responsibilities.

What Makes a New Construction Unit “Accessible” in Utah?

Most new apartment buildings and multifamily housing complexes in Utah, constructed after March 13, 1991, must include certain design features that provide accessibility to people with disabilities. These requirements come from both the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and Utah-specific building codes.

Ground-floor units (and those served by an elevator): must include key accessibility features.
Accessibility features include:
- Accessible routes into and through the unit
- Doors wide enough for wheelchairs (at least 32 inches clear width)
- Accessible light switches and thermostats
- Reinforced bathroom walls for grab bars
- Kitchens and bathrooms usable by people in wheelchairs

Utah follows the federal standards but also requires new construction to comply with the Utah State Building Code—Accessibility, which mirrors the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for public spaces, and the FHA for private housing.

Who Must Follow Accessible Unit Rules?

These requirements apply to:

Newly constructed multifamily buildings with four or more units
Units that are ground-floor or accessible by elevator

Single-family homes and townhomes (without elevator access) are usually not covered by these rules.

Reasonable Modifications and Accommodations

If you need adjustments beyond the built-in features, you have a right to request reasonable modifications or accommodations under the Fair Housing Act.

Reasonable modifications: Physical changes to your unit (e.g., installing grab bars, widening doorways)
Reasonable accommodations: Policy adjustments, such as allowing a service animal or reserving a parking spot closer to your unit

Landlords, unless the building is federally funded, may require you to pay for modifications to your personal unit. However, you cannot be denied your right to make these changes at your own expense, so long as you return the property to its original condition when you move out, if required. Subsidized housing may sometimes pay these costs.

How to Request Accessible Features or Report Issues

If you move into a new Utah apartment and find required features are missing or your accommodation request is denied, you have options.

Start by making a written request to your landlord or property manager describing the change or accommodation you need.
If the landlord refuses or fails to act, you may file a complaint with the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division (UALD) Fair Housing Unit or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Official Forms for Reporting Discrimination

Utah Fair Housing Complaint Form – Use this form to report housing discrimination in Utah. The form can be accessed from the Utah Labor Commission’s official website.
- When and how to use: If a renter feels they have been denied an accessible unit or the landlord ignores a reasonable accommodation request, they can download, complete, and submit the form by mail, email, or in person to the Utah Labor Commission.
HUD Form 903.1 — Housing Discrimination Complaint
- When and how to use: Renters can use this form if they believe they have faced disability discrimination anywhere in Utah. The official form and instructions are on the HUD website. Submit it online or via mail as directed.

If you have any trouble securing needed accessibility features, act quickly—a one-year deadline applies for most fair housing complaints in Utah.

Which Tribunal Handles Housing Accessibility Disputes?

Accessibility and disability accommodation disputes in Utah are primarily handled through administrative complaint processes, not court. The Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division (UALD) Fair Housing Unit reviews and investigates these complaints. Appeals or further reviews may go to the Utah Labor Commission.

Relevant Utah Tenancy Legislation

Utah Fair Housing Act — Covers accessible unit requirements and anti-discrimination protections.
Utah State Building Code—Accessibility — Requires physical accessibility features in new multifamily housing.
Federal Fair Housing Act Accessibility Guidelines

FAQs: Accessible Unit Requirements in Utah

Which buildings in Utah must have accessible units?
All new multifamily buildings (four or more units) built after March 13, 1991 must provide accessible features in ground-floor units and any units served by elevators.
Can I request modifications to my apartment if the building is already accessible?
Yes. Even if your apartment meets basic standards, you may request further reasonable modifications to meet your personal needs, such as installing bathroom grab bars or adjusting kitchen counters.
Who pays for accessibility modifications in Utah rentals?
In most cases, renters pay for modifications to private units. Landlords cover accommodations in public or common areas. In government-subsidized housing, the provider may pay. Always ask your landlord and check if assistance is available.
How do I file a complaint about inaccessible housing?
Complete the Utah Fair Housing Complaint Form or HUD Form 903.1 and submit it to the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division or HUD, as outlined above.
What is the deadline for filing a housing discrimination complaint?
Fair housing complaints in Utah must be filed within one year of the alleged discrimination to be considered valid.

Key Takeaways for Utah Renters

New Utah apartments must follow accessibility guidelines for renters with disabilities.
You have rights to modifications and accommodations—know how to request them and where to go for help.
Contact the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division or HUD for official support if needs aren't met.

Understanding Utah's accessibility requirements empowers renters to advocate for their legal rights and live independently.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division Fair Housing Unit: Division handling housing accessibility complaints in Utah.
Utah Fair Housing Complaint Form
HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process
Utah Fair Housing Act (Official Legislation)