Tips for Renting an Apartment When You Have a Disability

People with disabilities often have a difficult time finding appropriate housing. Not only must they worry about everything that non-disabled individuals must consider - such as amount of space and desired amenities - but the unit must conform to guidelines for wheel chair access and other codes. If you have a disability, follow these tips for renting an apartment.

Contact HUD

You can find listings for apartments that accommodate people with disabilities at the Department of Housing and Urban Development Web site. The best thing to do is to follow the link that allows you to search for a local office, then contact them directly. They will have brochures and listings for apartments that can meet all of your needs, and can even assist with the application process.

Make a List

Just because you have a disability doesn't mean that your needs conform to those of other disabled individuals. For example, perhaps your disability doesn't preclude your climbing steps, which would allow you to live on a second floor. Make a list of all the amenities you require, such as wheelchair access, handlebars in the bathrooms or wide hallways, and make sure you carry it with you when you tour apartment homes.

Pick Up a Guide

The apartment guides that you can find for free at supermarkets and convenience stores can be a handy tool. Examine each apartment description in the area where you want to live, and look for notations about disability access. Most properties indicate their amenities with icons or descriptions at the bottom of the page, but if you aren't sure, you can call the property management company to inquire.

Ask About Maintenance

If you have a disability, you might be worried about more than just amenities. The response time for maintenance at the apartment complex might also be a factor. For example, if your air-conditioner breaks and you need to have it fixed, it might be difficult for you to leave until maintenance can respond. Make sure to ask property managers about these types of things when you tour the apartment.

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