Welcoming Disabled Applicants: Advice for Property Managers
As property managers, it’s crucial to ensure that disabled applicants receive the same treatment as any other applicant. This means following the same process for accepting applications, showing units, conducting credit and background checks, and executing leases. However, there are some specific considerations to keep in mind, which I’ll outline below.
Accessible Business Office
Make sure your leasing office meets accessibility standards. This includes having an accessible route from the parking area to your office, which may involve adding a ramp, curb cut, or ensuring at least one restroom is accessible.
Reasonable Accommodations
If a disabled applicant needs accommodations to apply for housing, provide them. For example, allow a vision-impaired applicant to have a friend complete the forms or permit a service animal in the office. A guardian may also complete paperwork and sign the lease on behalf of the applicant.
If an applicant requests a unit modification or accommodation, ask them to put the request in writing and provide verification of their disability. Having a clear policy in place for handling such requests is essential.
Appropriate Questions
When interacting with disabled applicants, ask only the same questions you would ask any other applicant, such as:
Can you pay the rent?
Do you have references regarding your resident history?
Who will be living in the unit?
Do you have a criminal history?
For communities specifically designated for people with disabilities, you can ask if the applicant qualifies for the housing.
Inappropriate Questions
Avoid asking the following:
Do you have a disability?
Do you take medication?
How severe is your disability?
Why are you receiving SSI?
Can I see your medical records?
Have you been hospitalized for mental illness?
Have you been in drug or alcohol rehab?
Are you capable of living independently?
Additional Guidelines
Do not presume to know what is best for a disabled applicant. If someone with a mobility impairment wants a second-floor unit, respect their choice. Assuming you know their needs better can violate fair housing laws.
Avoid offering specific accommodations unprompted. For example, don’t suggest a handicapped parking space to someone in a wheelchair. Instead, respond positively if they request one. Let applicants know you welcome requests for reasonable accommodations and modifications by including this information in your application materials.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that all applicants, regardless of disability, receive fair and respectful treatment throughout the application process. As property managers, our goal is to create inclusive and supportive communities for everyone.
Frequently asked
questions
We understand that the eviction process can raise many questions. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from property managers, real estate investors, and hedge funds.
How long does the eviction process take?
The timeline can vary depending on the specifics of the case and the court schedule. On average, the eviction process in Georgia can take anywhere from 30 to 45 days from filing to tenant removal.
What documents are required to start the eviction?
You'll need the lease agreement, any notices you’ve provided to the tenant, and a completed eviction form. Our team will guide you through gathering all the necessary paperwork.
Do I have to attend court for the eviction?
In most cases, yes, you or a representative will need to attend the hearing. However, Local Evictions LLC can assist with preparing your case and making sure you’re fully prepared for court.
What happens if the tenant refuses to leave after the eviction order?
If the tenant refuses to leave, we will coordinate with the local Marshals to enforce the court’s order and oversee the setout process to legally remove the tenant and their belongings.
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What Our CLients Said
We used Local Evictions for two setouts we had. Will and his team did a great job. Very professional and great communication! We look forward working with them more in the future. Will absolutely recommend them! Thank you for your help!
Martha Zeidan
Will at Local Eviction did an absolutely incredible job. I couldn't have done this eviction without him. He dealt with a completely insane family we had to evict with complete professionalism. I'd recommend Local Eviction to anyone. They are communicative, on time, courteous, and thorough. If you have a tough eviction, talk to Will.
Andrew Glavan
I used Will and his team for a recent tenant eviction … it could not have gone smoother !! They arrived early, got the job done, and were very professional. Would highly recommend them