The Seven Design and Construction Accessibility Requirements of the Fair Housing Act

Both privately owned and publicly assisted housing, regardless of whether they are rental or for-sale units, must meet the accessibility requirements of the Fair Housing Act when they are located in a building of four or more units, built for first occupancy after March 13, 1991.

There are 7 requirements that must be met:

1.) Accessible building entrance on an accessible route

An accessible route is the key element that allows people with mobility disabilities to travel around a building site and enter, use, and enjoy all features available to all residents. It is a continuous path with no steps, no abrupt changes in level, and no steep steps.

2.) Accessible and useable public and common use areas

People with disabilities should have access to public and common areas, permitting them the use of all amenities.

3.) Useable doors

All passage doors should be wide enough (at least 32 inches) to provide access for people who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices.

4.) Accessible route into and through covered unit

People that use wheelchairs or other mobility devices should be able to navigate all hallways leading to their unit and throughout all rooms within their unit.

5.) Light switches, electrical outlets, thermostats, and other environmental controls must be in accessible locations

Light switches, electrical outlets, thermostats, and other environmental controls must be located in accessible locations.

6.) Reinforce walls in bathrooms for later installation of grab bars

If grab bars are not already installed, for safety purposes, bathroom walls around the toilet and tub/shower should be reinforced for future installation.

7.) Useable kitchens and bathrooms

Kitchens and bathrooms should be designed so that a person who uses a wheelchair or other mobility device can maneuver around the space and use all fixtures.