Reasonable Accommodation Frequently Asked Questions - NYC Housing Recovery

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FAQs

NYC Build It Back Online Portal


Reasonable Accommodation FAQ

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What is the Build It Back Program's reasonable accommodation policy?

The Build It Back Program is required by federal, state and local laws to provide reasonable accommodations to applicants who have a present medical condition that is either permanent or chronic. Reasonable accommodations are provided by the Program on a case-by-case basis.

Reasonable accommodations may be provided where an applicant is seeking access to Program staff, facilities, or services. In those instances, accommodations may include, but are not limited to:

Sign language interpreters

Assistance with reading and completing forms

Conducting business by telephone, fax or mail, if appropriate

Home visits, if necessary

Additionally, reasonable accommodations may be provided as construction modifications, where an applicant requires special construction changes to standard Program offerings in order to facilitate access to and within the home. Examples of reasonable accommodations include:

Lever handles at all doors

ADA-compliant appliances (where produced)

ADA-compliant handles for all plumbing fixtures

Choice of comfort height or standard height toilet

Installation of grab bars or wall reinforcement

Modified kitchen cabinets

Modified height electrical outlets

Redesign existing space to accommodate special needs

Widened doorways

Roll-in showers

Low threshold construction

Ramp or lift

How will I know if I am eligible for a reasonable accommodation?

If you are an applicant who requires access to Program staff, facilities, or events, then you are eligible for assistance without filing a formal request. The Program will make every effort to assist applicants as needed without a verbal request. However, applicants that require access accommodations only need to ask the nearest Program staff member.

If you require accommodations in the design and construction of your home, then you must submit a completed Reasonable Accommodation Request that is signed by a licensed medical provider who attests that your medical conditions are present and either permanent or chronic. You may find a copy of the form here.

If you are not able to have your medical provider complete the Reasonable Accommodation Request, then you may also submit a signed and completed HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) form, included in the linked PDF above, so the Program can contact your physician to confirm your accommodation request.

After receipt of the Reasonable Accommodation Request form signed by a licensed medical provider or the completed HIPPA form, the Program's legal department will review the request to determine if it is reasonable based on a present and either permanent or chronic condition. If the Program is able to provide accommodations based on the request, then the Program's legal department will notify applicants of the decision. Applicants should keep this letter to share with the architects and engineers during design consultation.

What if I don't need a reasonable accommodation but a member of my household does?

If a member of your household requires construction accommodations due to a present and either permanent or chronic condition, then you must submit a Reasonable Accommodation Request for the household member in order to receive the construction modification.

How can I find out more information about my specific medical needs and what sorts of accommodations I should request?

If you need more information regarding what reasonable accommodations may be helpful, please speak with your medical provider.

How long does it take for Build It Back to approve or reject my request for reasonable accommodations?

The completed determination will be mailed to you within fifteen (15) calendar days of the receipt of a completed Reasonable Accommodation Request.

Will Build It Back protect my privacy?

The Build It Back Program is dedicated to protecting all personal and sensitive information collected about applicants. As a result, the Program has a robust process for safeguarding, disseminating, and decontrolling all Program information. The Program will never provide your information to a third party without "a need to know" that is directly related to Program benefits or without your prior consent.