A tenant applicant confined to a wheelchair requests to have an access ramp constructed at a rental property. What must the landlord allow?

The correct answer is that the landlord must allow the tenant to make modifications at their own expense. Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords are required to make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, which includes allowing modifications to the property that enable the tenant to enjoy the premises fully. This means that if a tenant, such as one confined to a wheelchair, requires modifications like an access ramp, they have the right to make those changes, assuming they will be done at the tenant’s expense.

This provision ensures that tenants with disabilities can access and use their rental units effectively, promoting inclusivity in housing. The landlord can set reasonable guidelines for how those modifications should be carried out to ensure that the integrity of the property is maintained but cannot outright deny the request.