Reasonable Accommodation Policy
The Commons Student Housing
Dunmore, PA
 

1. Purpose
   The Commons Student Housing ("The Commons") is committed to complying with the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and providing equal access to housing opportunities for all students, including individuals with disabilities. This policy outlines our procedures and responsibilities regarding reasonable accommodations to ensure that individuals with disabilities can fully enjoy the benefits of living at The Commons.
    
2. Legal Framework
   This policy is based on the guidance provided in the HUD/DOJ Joint Statement on Reasonable Accommodations under the Fair Housing Act (May 17, 2004). The FHA prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of disability and requires housing providers to make reasonable accommodations in rules, policies, practices, or services when such accommodations are necessary to afford individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to use and enjoy their housing.

 

3. Definition of Reasonable Accommodation
   A "reasonable accommodation" is a change, exception, or adjustment to a rule, policy, practice, or service that may be necessary for a person with a disability to have an equal opportunity to use and enjoy their housing. Examples include:
   1. Allowing service animals in no-pet housing.
   2. Providing reserved parking spaces near accessible entrances.
   3. Modifying unit features for accessibility.
   4. Adjusting rental payment schedules to align with disability benefits.

 

4. Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation
   Residents or applicants seeking a reasonable accommodation should follow these steps:

1. Submission: Submit a written request to the The Commons Management Office. Requests can also be made verbally or through alternative formats, depending on the individual’s needs.
2. Content of the Request: The request should include:
   • The nature of the requested accommodation.
   • An explanation of how the accommodation is necessary for the individual’s disability.
   • Any supporting documentation, if required, to verify the need for the accommodation.
      

V. Review Process

1. Acknowledgment: The Commons will acknowledge receipt of the request within five (5) business days.
2. Interactive Dialogue: If needed, management will engage in an interactive process with the individual to fully understand the request and explore alternative accommodations if the initial request cannot be fulfilled.
3. Verification: The Commons may request reliable documentation from a qualified professional to confirm that the individual has a disability and that the requested accommodation is necessary. However, no unnecessary or intrusive documentation will be required.
4. Decision: A decision will be provided in writing within ten (10) business days after receipt of all necessary information. If the request is denied, the written response will include the reasons for denial and an invitation to discuss alternatives.
    

VI. Determining Reasonableness
An accommodation may be deemed unreasonable if:

1. It imposes an undue financial or administrative burden on The Commons.
2. It fundamentally alters the nature of the housing provider’s operations.

If a requested accommodation is denied for these reasons, The Commons will work with the individual to identify alternative accommodations that may meet their needs.


VII. Confidentiality
All information obtained during the reasonable accommodation process will be kept confidential and used solely for evaluating the accommodation request.


VIII. Appeals
If an individual disagrees with the decision, they may submit a written appeal to the Property Manager within ten (10) business days. The appeal will be reviewed by senior management, and a final decision will be provided within fifteen (15) business days.


IX. Retaliation
The Commons strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who requests a reasonable accommodation or participates in the review process.


X. Contact Information
For questions or to submit a reasonable accommodation request, contact:
The Commons Management Office
152 University Drive Dunmore, PA 18512
570-207-0435
[email protected]       
 
This policy ensures that The Commons upholds the rights of individuals with disabilities in alignment with the FHA and the HUD/DOJ Joint Statement. Management and staff are trained to handle accommodation requests with diligence, fairness, and respect.