If you have a physical or mental disability that requires special consideration with regard to your housing, the law requires landlords to make every reasonable effort to accommodate you if possible. In most cases with modern or retrofitted housing, this means a percentage of units are designated “handicap accessible” apartments with certain accessible features. However, since not every disability is the same, not every accessible apartment may be suited to your needs. Here are 4 basic questions to ask to help narrow your search for a handicap accessible apartment.

1. What types of accessible apartments are available?

There are two basic types of accessible apartments: barrier-free units, which are geared toward wheelchair access, and accessible units designed around other disabilities, like blindness or deafness. Advise the landlord of your disability and ask whether any apartments are available to meet that need.

2. Is accessible parking nearby?

Accessible units should have accompanying accessible parking. While this may or may not be compliant with local rules, you need to be sure the distance from the parking space to your apartment is acceptable for your particular needs.

3. Does the building have an elevator?

This question might be irrelevant if your unit is on the first floor, but if not, and if you can’t climb stairs, find out if there is an elevator. Also, ask to see its latest inspection certificate to make sure the elevator is kept in good repair.

4. Can I make modifications?

Within reason, landlords are required to allow you to make modifications to your unit to accommodate your specific disability. For example, if you are a wheelchair user and cannot reach a thermostat without standing up, you may be able to reinstall the thermostat where it is reachable. If a handicap accessible apartment does not have the features you need, ask for them.

5. What are the nearby amenities?

Handicap accessible apartments provide accessibility within the apartment community, but not necessarily within the neighborhood. If your plan is to live independently, you need to be certain your unit is close enough to services like food, transportation, laundry and so on, so that you can reach these easily. Ask your landlord about the nearest grocery store, post office or other services you might need.

Olympia Management is committed to meeting the needs of our residents with disabilities, and to that end we offer many apartments that are handicap accessible. To learn more, contact us today at 256-894-2382.