Over on theĀ ApartmentAssoc Yahoo GroupĀ an owner asks who is responsible for the costs associated with “Reasonable Modifications”, in this case a ramp.
An ownerĀ must allow the ramp as a reasonable modification. Ā The tenant must pay the costs associated with the modification.
JOINT STATEMENT OFĀ THE DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENTĀ AND THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICEĀ REASONABLE MODIFICATIONS UNDER THEĀ FAIR HOUSING ACT
Who is responsible for the expense of making a reasonable modification?
The Fair Housing Act provides that while the housing provider must permit the modification, the tenant is responsible for paying the cost of the modification.
www.hud.gov/offices/fheo/disabilities/reasonable_modifications_mar08.pdf
With this said, there are groups that provide assistance of grants in some cases to facilitate such modifications. Ā One place to start is:
http://county.milwaukee.gov/DSD/Disability-Resource-Center.htm
You may find that the modification creates a long term tenancy as well as a marketable benefit for future tenants.
Note that for “Reasonable Accommodations” the owner must bear the costs if those costs are reasonable.
What is the difference between a Reasonable Modification and a Reasonable Accommodation?
A reasonable modification is a physical change to the interior or exterior of a unit orĀ property, such as installing a ramp. Ā Ā A reasonable accommodation is a changeĀ to your policies; such as allowing a service animal in a property with a no pet policy.