Vermont Accessible Housing: New Construction Requirements

If you’re a renter in Vermont looking for a new home—or if you need accessible features due to a disability—it’s important to know what the law requires for accessibility in new construction. Federal and state rules ensure new rental buildings meet key requirements for accessibility, providing fair opportunities for all communities.

Understanding Accessibility Laws for New Rental Construction in Vermont

Both the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) and Vermont’s Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act (VHRA) protect the rights of renters with disabilities. These laws require that new multifamily rental buildings (built for first occupancy after March 13, 1991) include certain accessible features.

Which Properties Must Be Accessible?

Not all housing is covered, but the rules generally apply to:

• Apartment buildings with four or more units
• Condominium or townhome complexes (if first occupancy is after March 13, 1991)

Single-family homes, duplexes, and buildings with less than four units that are owner-occupied are typically exempt.

What Accessibility Features Are Required?

Covered new construction must include the following accessible features in public and common areas as well as individual units:

• Accessible building entrances and routes into/through the building
• Accessible public and common-use areas (lobbies, mailrooms, laundry rooms, etc.)
• Doors that are wide enough for wheelchairs
• Accessible routes into and throughout individual units
• Environmental controls (like light switches and thermostats) at accessible heights
• Reinforced bathroom walls for grab bars
• Kitchens and bathrooms usable by people in wheelchairs

State and local building codes may require additional accessibility standards. Vermont typically follows the Vermont Fire & Building Safety Code, which references ADA and Fair Housing rules.^[1][2]

What If You Need Additional Modifications?

Even if your rental meets minimum requirements, you may still need accommodations. If so, you have the right to request reasonable modifications at your own expense—such as installing grab bars or ramp access. Your landlord cannot refuse these changes if they’re necessary for your disability and reasonable, but they may require you to restore the unit when you move out.

Official Forms: Requesting Accommodation or Reporting Non-Compliance

While Vermont law does not mandate a single official form for requesting an accessibility accommodation, the following resources are available:

• Accommodation Request Letter (Model Form)
  When to use: If you need changes to your unit, submit a written request to your landlord. This could include asking for an accessible parking space or permission to install a ramp.
  How to use: Clearly describe the accommodation needed and how it relates to your disability. Include a note from your healthcare provider if you wish. You can find a model form from the Vermont Human Rights Commission’s Reasonable Accommodation Guide (see pages 6-7).
• Fair Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (Vermont Human Rights Commission)
  When to use: If you believe your landlord or property manager failed to provide required access or denied your reasonable modification request.
  How to use: Complete and submit the form by mail, fax, or online.
  Submit a housing discrimination complaint.

It’s a good idea to keep copies of all requests and correspondence.

Who Enforces Accessibility Laws in Vermont?

If you experience problems, the Vermont Human Rights Commission handles residential accessibility complaints and investigates fair housing violations. For rental disagreements in general, contact the Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development.

The key laws protecting accessible housing and renters with disabilities in Vermont are:

• 9 V.S.A. § 4503: Prohibited Discrimination Under Vermont Fair Housing Act
• Vermont Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act, 21 V.S.A. § 495d-495e

FAQ: Accessible Rental Units in Vermont

1. Does my landlord have to make my apartment accessible?
   Landlords of covered new buildings must meet accessibility standards when the building is constructed. For older buildings, reasonable modifications may be granted at your request and expense.
2. How do I ask my landlord for a disability accommodation?
   Submit a written request describing the needed accommodation. You may use the model letter provided by the Vermont Human Rights Commission.
3. Can my landlord refuse my accessibility request?
   Landlords must allow reasonable modifications unless the request creates an undue financial or administrative burden, or fundamentally alters the housing.
4. What if I believe my rights were violated?
   You can file a housing discrimination complaint with the Vermont Human Rights Commission.
5. Are there requirements for single-family homes?
   No, new construction accessibility rules usually don't apply to single-family or small owner-occupied rentals.

Key Takeaways for Vermont Renters

• Most new multifamily housing must meet accessibility standards in Vermont
• You have the right to request reasonable modifications or accommodations for a disability
• The Vermont Human Rights Commission enforces fair housing access

Knowing your rights helps ensure safe, accessible, and fair housing for all renters.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Human Rights Commission – File a complaint and get information on fair housing and discrimination
• Vermont Department of Housing & Community Development – State resource for renters
• Disability Rights Vermont – Advocacy and legal assistance for disabled renters
• U.S. Department of Justice – Fair Housing Act Overview

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1. Federal Fair Housing Act
2. Vermont Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act (21 V.S.A. §§ 495d-495e)
3. Vermont Fire & Building Safety Code

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