Covered multifamily dwellings refer to residential buildings that contain four or more units. These buildings must either have one or more elevators or include ground floor units in structures with four or more units. This definition is important in the context of fair housing laws, particularly regarding accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
This term is primarily used in the context of the Fair Housing Act, which aims to prevent discrimination in housing based on various factors, including disability. Covered multifamily dwellings are subject to specific accessibility requirements to ensure that individuals with disabilities can live in these types of housing. Legal practitioners may encounter this term in civil rights cases, housing discrimination claims, and compliance assessments.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A four-story apartment complex with 20 units and an elevator is considered a covered multifamily dwelling. This building must meet specific accessibility requirements for residents with disabilities.
Example 2: A two-story building with four ground floor units and no elevator is also classified as a covered multifamily dwelling, as it meets the criteria of having four or more units.
The primary statute relevant to covered multifamily dwellings is the Fair Housing Act (Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968). This act prohibits discrimination in housing and outlines accessibility requirements for covered multifamily dwellings.
| State | Specific Requirements |
|---|---|
| California | Additional state laws may impose stricter accessibility standards. |
| New York | Local laws may vary and include additional requirements for elevators. |
| Texas | State regulations align closely with federal guidelines but may have local amendments. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Accessible Housing | Housing designed to be usable by individuals with disabilities. | Covered multifamily dwellings must meet specific criteria for size and number of units. |
| Fair Housing Act | Federal law prohibiting discrimination in housing. | The Fair Housing Act includes provisions that apply specifically to covered multifamily dwellings. |
If you are involved in a housing situation that may involve covered multifamily dwellings, consider the following steps:
For complex situations, consulting a legal professional is advisable.
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A covered multifamily dwelling is any building with four or more units that has an elevator or ground floor units.