Question:
“I am a park resident with a disability. What rights do I have?”
-Albert J. (57), resident, Sonoma, CA
Answer:
Residents with disabilities have numerous rights and protections that are recognized under United States law.
To begin, the Fair Housing Act (FHA) prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in housing, including mobile homes. This means that mobile home parks and communities cannot deny housing or impose different terms or conditions based on a person’s disability.
Park owners are also required to provide reasonable accommodations to residents with disabilities. A reasonable accommodation is a modification or exception to rules, policies, or services that enable a person with a disability to have equal access to housing. For example, a resident may request a designated accessible parking space or permission to install a wheelchair ramp.
Additionally, residents with disabilities are also permitted, at their own expense and with proper permits, to modify their own homes to ensure the accessibility of the premises.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act prohibits discrimination based on disability in programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance. Mobile home parks that receive federal funding, such as through HUD programs, must comply with Section 504 requirements, which may include accessibility standards and non-discrimination provisions.
Finally, some states and local jurisdictions have additional laws or regulations that provide further protections for mobile home residents with disabilities. These laws can vary, so it’s important to consult the specific laws in your state or locality.
Overview:
- Parks cannot deny housing or impose different rules on the basis of someone’s disability
- Disabled residents have the right to reasonable accommodations.
- Disabled residents are eligible for financial assistance.
- Disabled homeowners are permitted to modify their own homes with proper permits.
