When discussing a home ramp project with a potential customer, we are often told "My HOA won't allow a ramp in front of my house." Many homeowners are unaware of their rights to home access and the limits of HOA scope. Knowing your rights will empower you to make decisions should diminished mobility or illness impact you or your family member.

Ramps – The Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 was implemented as Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act. This federal legislation prohibits housing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status or disability. States defer to this federal protection, and it includes installation of modular ramp systems, and constructed ramps. Americans have the right to safe entrance and exit from their home for the duration of their time living in the home.

Renting vs. Purchasing – Fair Housing Act protection extends to rental ramps as well as purchased ramps or constructed ramps. Protection is not limited to those with physical disabilities, but also covers people living with blindness, hearing impairment, HIV, cognitive disabilities or impairment, addiction-related conditions, chronic fatigue, head injuries or mental illness.

Homeowner's Association Limitations - Your HOA does have the right to request a drawing of a proposed ramp system, vertical platform lift design, or exterior stair lift. They may also require that once a homeowner or tenant is fully recovered, that the ramp, vertical platform lift, or exterior stair lift be removed. Lastly, they might suggest that temporary landscaping or camouflaging foliage be installed to improve aesthetics of an installation, but they cannot deny installation of a ramp, vertical platform lift or exterior stair lift if a licensed medical professional deems it necessary for home access. Read more about state ADA housing legislation here: Georgia Fair Housing Law

Resources – The Southeast ADA Center provides the most comprehensive resources for those living with disabilities in Georgia and beyond.

Need to rent or purchase a modular wheelchair ramp system? Visit us Monday-Friday 10am-5pm or Saturdays 9am-1pm or call us at (470) 545-1827. We look forward to helping you "go where you want to go!"