## Chapter 7 Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs)

#### Overview

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This chapter contains information about Specially     |
| troduction | > Adapted Housing (SAH) Minimum Property Requirements   |
|            | > (MPRs).                                               |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #          | > This chapter includes the following sections:         |
| #### In th |                                                         |
| is Chapter |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

  ---------- ----------------------------------------------- ------------
  Section    Topic Name                                      See Page

  A          General Information About Specially Adapted     7-A-1
             Housing (SAH) Minimum Property Requirements     
             (MPRs)                                          

  B          Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) for        7-B-1
             Specially Adapted Housing (SAH)                 

  C          Requirements for Condominiums and Townhouses    7-C-1
  ---------- ----------------------------------------------- ------------

> ***Note***: See Chapter 9, Section F, "Specially Adapted Housing (SAH)
> Construction Plans, Building Code Requirements."

## Section A General Information About Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs)

#### Overview

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This section contains general information about       |
| troduction | > Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Minimum Property      |
|            | > Requirements (MPRs).                                  |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #          | > This section includes the topic "About Specially      |
| #### In th | > Adapted Housing (SAH) Minimum Property Requirements   |
| is Section | > (MPRs)."                                              |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### About Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs)

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This topic contains information about Specially       |
| troduction | > Adapted Housing (SAH) Minimum Property Requirements   |
|            | > (MPRs), including:                                    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   a description                                       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   how MPRs were developed                             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   the statutory requirement                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   reasonably necessary adaptations for SAH cases      |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   flexibility and exercise of judgment, and           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   when an existing home does not meet the MPRs.       |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > ***MPRs*** are absolute conditions under the          |
| # Descript | > governing law for the housing grant.                  |
| ion {#desc |                                                         |
| ription .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Ho   | > MPRs were developed over the years from the           |
| w MPRs Wer | > experience and knowledge of experts who have gained   |
| e Develope | > an understanding of the residential needs of veterans |
| d {#how-mp | > confined, or largely confined, to a wheelchair.       |
| rs-were-de |                                                         |
| veloped .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > 38 United States Code (U.S.C.), Chapter 21 or 38 Code |
| # Statutor | > of Federal Regulations (CFR) 36.4401 through 36.4410  |
| y Requirem | > mandates that any housing unit acquired, constructed, |
| ent {#stat | > or remodeled using proceeds from the SAH and Special  |
| utory-requ | > Housing Adaptations (SHA) Grant Programs must:        |
| irement .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   comply with the MPRs, and                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   include features necessary to accommodate the       |
|            |     veteran's disabilities.                             |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     ***Exclusion***: MPRs are *not* required when:      |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   the veteran obtains a waiver, or                    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   compliance with the MPR is not feasible, and the    |
|            |     veteran requests a\                                 |
|            |     waiver of such feature that is approved by RLC      |
|            |     management.                                         |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     ***Reference***: For more information about MPR     |
|            |     waivers, see Chapter 11, Section B, "Processing     |
|            |     Medical and Non-Medical Waiver Requests."           |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

About Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Minimum Property Requirements
(MPRs), Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > The following adaptations are considered reasonably   |
| # Reasonab | > necessary in SAH cases:                               |
| ly Necessa |                                                         |
| ry Adaptat | -   ramps/walkways                                      |
| ions for S |                                                         |
| AH Cases { | -   doorways and hallways                               |
| #reasonabl |                                                         |
| y-necessar | -   garages, carports, and passageways                  |
| y-adaptati |                                                         |
| ons-for-sa | -   bathrooms                                           |
| h-cases .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   bedrooms                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   kitchens                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   maintenance                                         |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   heating and air conditioning                        |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   electrical                                          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   security and emergency equipment, and               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   doors, windows, and flooring materials, and         |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   laundry.                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***Reference***: For more information about MPRs  |
|            |     > and adaptations necessary for a veteran's         |
|            |     > disability in SAH cases, see Chapter 7, Section   |
|            |     > B, "Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) for      |
|            |     > Specially Adapted Housing (SAH)."                 |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Although the MPRs are requirements, there is still a  |
| # Flexibil | > need for flexibility and the exercise of judgment     |
| ity and Ex | > based on knowledge of the physical capabilities and   |
| ercise of  | > limitations of the particular veteran.                |
| Judgment { |                                                         |
| #flexibili | > In some cases, certain adaptive features may not be   |
| ty-and-exe | > necessary. Therefore, some veterans may choose to     |
| rcise-of-j | > submit a waiver to the Department of Veterans Affairs |
| udgment .u | > requesting that a requirement be eliminated from the  |
| nnumbered} | > construction plans. If a veteran requests the         |
|            | > installation of a special feature and it is deemed    |
|            | > necessary, the special feature is allowed if all      |
|            | > other necessary MPR features have been completed.     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | > ***Reference***: For more information about waivers,  |
|            | > see Chapter 11, Section B, "Processing Medical and    |
|            | > Non-Medical Waiver Requests."                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

About Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Minimum Property Requirements
(MPRs), Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > In SAH cases, there are instances in which an         |
| # When Exi | > existing home does not meet the MPRs and cannot be    |
| sting Home | > remodeled to meet the MPRs, due to the:               |
| s Do Not M |                                                         |
| eet MPRs { | -   cost of adaptations                                 |
| #when-exis |                                                         |
| ting-homes | -   physical condition/deferred maintenance, and/or     |
| -do-not-me |                                                         |
| et-mprs .u | -   design of the home.                                 |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            |     > As a result, the veteran has the option to:       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   purchase a home that has already been specially     |
|            |     adapted                                             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   purchase an existing home that is feasible to       |
|            |     adapt, or                                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   construct a new home that meets the requirements of |
|            |     the grant.                                          |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

## Section B Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) for Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) {#section-b-minimum-property-requirements-mprs-for-specially-adapted-housing-sah .unnumbered}

#### Overview {#overview-2 .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This section contains information about Minimum       |
| troduction | > Property Requirements (MPRs) for Specially Adapted    |
|  {#introdu | > Housing (SAH), including the requirements for:        |
| ction-3 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   ramps/walkways                                      |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   doorways and hallways                               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   garages, carports, and passageways                  |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   bathrooms                                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   bedrooms                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   kitchens                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   maintenance                                         |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   heating and air conditioning                        |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   electrical                                          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   security and emergency equipment                    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   doors, windows, and flooring materials, and         |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   laundry.                                            |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > This section includes the following topics:           |
| # In this  |                                                         |
| Section {# |                                                         |
| in-this-se |                                                         |
| ction-1 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

  ---------- ----------------------------------------------- ------------
  Topic      Topic Name                                      See Page

  1          Ramp/Walkway Requirements                       7-B-2

  2          Doorway and Hallway Requirements                7-B-6

  3          Garage, Carport, and Passageway Requirements    7-B-7

  4          Bathroom Requirements                           7-B-8

  5          Bedroom Requirements                            7-B-15

  6          Kitchen Requirements                            7-B-16

  7          Maintenance Requirements                        7-B-19

  8          Heating and Air Conditioning Requirements       7-B-20

  9          Electrical Requirements                         7-B-21

  10         Security and Emergency Equipment Requirements   7-B-23

  11         Door, Window, and Flooring Requirements         7-B-24

  12         Laundry Appliance Requirements                  7-B-26
  ---------- ----------------------------------------------- ------------

#### Ramp/Walkway Requirements {#rampwalkway-requirements .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This topic contains information about ramp/walkway    |
| troduction | > requirements, including:                              |
|  {#introdu |                                                         |
| ction-4 .u | -   when ramps are not required                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   number and location                                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   installation                                        |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   height and width                                    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   slope                                               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   treatment                                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   railing, and                                        |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   platforms and landings.                             |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Ramps are *not* required when topography and grading  |
| When Ramps | > eliminate the need for ramping (for example, a        |
|  Are Not R | > no-step entry).                                       |
| equired {# |                                                         |
| when-ramps |                                                         |
| -are-not-r |                                                         |
| equired .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Numb | > The number and location of exterior ramps/walkways    |
| er and Loc | > are determined by the site elevation, but most homes  |
| ation {#nu | > must have a minimum of two means of ingress and       |
| mber-and-l | > egress for the use of the veteran, which may require  |
| ocation .u | > ramping. If so, the two (at least) ramps/walkways     |
| nnumbered} | > must be:                                              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   suitable for ingress and egress, and                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   at different locations within the house.            |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > Additionally, at least one of the two             |
|            |     > ramps/walkways must:                              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | ```{=html}                                              |
|            | <!-- -->                                                |
|            | ```                                                     |
|            | -   provide a direct means of emergency egress from the |
|            |     adaptive bedroom\                                   |
|            |     area, and                                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be clear of potential fire hazards.                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***Example***: An example of the placement of a   |
|            |     > ramp/walkway as a potential fire hazard is when   |
|            |     > the veteran is required to go through one of the  |
|            |     > following rooms:                                  |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   kitchen                                             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   garage                                              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   utility room, or                                    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   any room containing heating equipment.              |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Ramp/Walkway Requirements, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > The ramp/walkway must:                                |
| Installati |                                                         |
| on {#insta | -   be permanently installed                            |
| llation .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   be a minimum of 42 inches wide if it is an existing |
|            |     hard-surface walkway                                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be a minimum of 48 inches wide if it is a new hard  |
|            |     surface walkway, and                                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have a low curb/guardrail on both sides of the ramp |
|            |     with a maximum\                                     |
|            |     height of 5 inches and designed to provide for      |
|            |     drainage at bottom of the\                          |
|            |     curb.                                               |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***IMPORTANT***: Permanent installation in colder |
|            |     > climates may require footings to extend below the |
|            |     > frost line to ensure minimal movement \[Thermal   |
|            |     > Cycling\] due to changes in temperature. It is    |
|            |     > recommended for ramps to be covered with adequate |
|            |     > overhang protection against inclement weather, if |
|            |     > practical.                                        |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > The platform at the doorway of the ramp/walkway must  |
| # Height { | > have a height equal to the interior house floor.      |
| #height .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > The ramp/walkway must have a minimum width of 42      |
| ### Width  | > inches from the inside of one handrail to the inside  |
| {#width .u | > of the other handrail.                                |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > The ramp/walkway must have a slope of 8 percent or    |
| ### Slope  | > less. The calculation for an 8 percent slope is:      |
| {#slope .u | > **1-inch rise x 12.05 inches = length**.              |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | > For every 1-inch of rise there must be 12.05 inches   |
|            | > of run. The rise measurement must be from the top of  |
|            | > the final soil grade nearest the home to the top of   |
|            | > the ramp decking. The run measurement is the length   |
|            | > of the ramp where it connects to upper and lower      |
|            | > platforms.                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | > ***IMPORTANT***: Driveways should comply with the     |
|            | > same slope requirements as ramps whenever possible.   |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Ramp/Walkway Requirements, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Trea | > The ramp/walkway must be constructed to be non-slip   |
| tment {#tr | > or be treated to prevent slipping when wet,           |
| eatment .u | > including, but not limited to:                        |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   broom finish for concrete surfaces                  |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   built-in heating coils                              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   ¼ inch spacing between decking boards, and          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   metal grating.                                      |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Ha   | > The ramp must have a handrail.                        |
| ndrail {#h |                                                         |
| andrail .u | > The handrail must:                                    |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   have a maximum height of 30 inches                  |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have a minimum of a 1-1/2 inch diameter             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have a minimum 1-1/2 inch to a maximum 2 inches     |
|            |     clearance from any\                                 |
|            |     mounting surface                                    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be smooth, continuous, and uninterrupted in the     |
|            |     vertical or horizontal\                             |
|            |     plane                                               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   if necessary, extend a minimum of 1 foot beyond     |
|            |     both ends of any stair or\                          |
|            |     ramp, be turned down where there is no parallel     |
|            |     wall, or turned in if there\                        |
|            |     is a parallel wall to avoid dangerous projections,  |
|            |     and                                                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be installed on both sides of the ramps or stairs.  |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     ***Note:*** If the slope of an existing or new      |
|            |     ramp/walkway is less than 5 percent, then a         |
|            |     handrail may not be necessary. However, the         |
|            |     ramp/walkway must have a low curb/guard rail on     |
|            |     both sides of the ramp with a maximum height of 5   |
|            |     inches.                                             |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Ramp/Walkway Requirements, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Platforms and landings must:                          |
| Platforms  |                                                         |
| and Landin | -   be a minimum size of 5 feet by 5 feet, unhindered   |
| gs {#platf |     by handrails, gutters,\                             |
| orms-and-l |     etc.                                                |
| andings .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   be provided at any wheelchair entrance              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be constructed of non-slip materials                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   include a clear area of 1 foot 6 inches in width    |
|            |     beside the door on the side                         |
|            |                                                         |
|            | > opposite the hinges                                   |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   at a maximum, be provided every 30 feet or less of  |
|            |     any ramp depending\                                 |
|            |     on design or the veteran's ability                  |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be provided at any 90º turn in the ramp             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be reasonably level with a maximum slope away from  |
|            |     the structure of 1/8\                               |
|            |     inch per foot for drainage, and                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be unobstructed.                                    |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Doorway and Hallway Requirements {#doorway-and-hallway-requirements .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This topic contains information about doorway and     |
| troduction | > hallway requirements, including variations to the     |
|  {#introdu | > requirements.                                         |
| ction-5 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Do   | > All doorways that are passageways and ingress/egress  |
| orway and  | > routes must:                                          |
| Entrance R |                                                         |
| equirement | -   be a minimum width of 36 inches                     |
| s {#doorwa |                                                         |
| y-and-entr | -   have a beveled ½ inch maximum height of thresholds, |
| ance-requi |     including patio\                                    |
| rements .u |     style doors                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   be protected from inclement weather by a canopy or  |
|            |     overhang, and                                       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be easy opening.                                    |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***IMPORTANT***: These doorway requirements are   |
|            |     > applicable to *every* doorway in the house, both  |
|            |     > interior and exterior doors, not only to doorway  |
|            |     > openings leading to the bathroom and other living |
|            |     > areas used by the veteran.                        |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Va   | > In the event that an existing doorway cannot be       |
| riation to | > widened to 36 inches, the doorway must have a minimum |
|  Doorway R | > width of 32 inches except for ingress/egress          |
| equirement | > doorways, which must always be a minimum of 36        |
| s {#variat | > inches.                                               |
| ion-to-doo |                                                         |
| rway-requi |                                                         |
| rements .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > All hallways must have:                               |
| ### Hallwa |                                                         |
| y Requirem | -   a minimum width of 48 inches (wider if possible),   |
| ents {#hal |     finished                                            |
| lway-requi |                                                         |
| rements .u | -   enough space, especially at the entry point from a  |
| nnumbered} |     hallway when a veteran\                             |
|            |     must make a 90º turn, to allow for maneuverability  |
|            |     through the hall and\                               |
|            |     into all rooms, including                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | ```{=html}                                              |
|            | <!-- -->                                                |
|            | ```                                                     |
|            | -   bathrooms                                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   bedrooms, and                                       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | ```{=html}                                              |
|            | <!-- -->                                                |
|            | ```                                                     |
|            | -   ingress/egress routes.                              |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Va   | > In the event that existing hallways *cannot* be       |
| riation to | > widened to 48 inches, the hallway must have a minimum |
|  Hallway R | > width of 42 inches.                                   |
| equirement |                                                         |
| s {#variat |                                                         |
| ion-to-hal |                                                         |
| lway-requi |                                                         |
| rements .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Garage, Carport, and Passageway Requirements {#garage-carport-and-passageway-requirements .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This topic contains information about garage,         |
| troduction | > carport, and passageway requirements.                 |
|  {#introdu |                                                         |
| ction-6 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #          | > A garage/carport must have a minimum overhead door    |
| #### Heigh | > height of:                                            |
| t of Garag |                                                         |
| e/ Carport | -   8 feet for new construction, and                    |
|  {#height- |                                                         |
| of-garage- | -   7 feet for existing construction.                   |
| carport .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Wid  | > Below is a list of requirements for the width of the  |
| th of Gara | > garage/carport:                                       |
| ge/ Carpor |                                                         |
| t {#width- | -   A single-car garage/carport must have a minimum     |
| of-garage- |     width of 14 feet 6\                                 |
| carport .u |     inches and 24 feet in length.                       |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   A double car garage/carport must have a minimum     |
|            |     width of 24 feet and\                               |
|            |     minimum length of 24 feet.                          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   The width of the garage/carport must:               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | ```{=html}                                              |
|            | <!-- -->                                                |
|            | ```                                                     |
|            | -   include a minimum of 5 feet unrestricted,           |
|            |     wheelchair maneuverability\                         |
|            |     on at least one side of the vehicle                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   allow ample space for the veteran to park specially |
|            |     equipped\                                           |
|            |     vehicle(s), and                                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   provide access to the vehicle, as necessary.        |
|            |                                                         |
|            | > ***IMPORTANT***: If the veteran uses a platform on    |
|            | > his/her vehicle, sufficient space must be provided:   |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   for the platform lift to ascend and descend, and    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   to allow for unrestricted maneuvering on and off of |
|            |     the platform lift by\                               |
|            |     the veteran.                                        |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > A connecting walkway/ramp to the garage or carport is |
|  When a Wa | > required if the garage or carport is detached. This   |
| lkway/ Ram | > walkway's/ramp's passageway must be covered to        |
| p Is Requi | > protect the veteran from exposure to inclement        |
| red {#when | > weather.                                              |
| -a-walkway |                                                         |
| -ramp-is-r |                                                         |
| equired .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Bathroom Requirements {#bathroom-requirements .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This topic contains information on bathroom           |
| troduction | > requirements, including:                              |
|  {#introdu |                                                         |
| ction-7 .u | -   an important note, and                              |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   the requirements for                                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | ```{=html}                                              |
|            | <!-- -->                                                |
|            | ```                                                     |
|            | -   location                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   flooring                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   toilets                                             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   pipes and radiators                                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   vanity countertops                                  |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   sinks                                               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   mirrors                                             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   medicine cabinets                                   |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   passage doorways                                    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   roll-in showers, and                                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   tubs.                                               |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Each veteran has individual needs and the SAH agent   |
|  IMPORTANT | > must research those needs and be considerate of them. |
|            | > Some variations to Minimum Property Requirements      |
|            | > (MPRs) are allowed with the proper waiver request.    |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > At least one wheelchair accessible bathroom must be   |
| # Location | > conveniently located near the veteran's bedroom.      |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Floor areas must:                                     |
| # Flooring |                                                         |
|            | -   allow at least one clear area for maneuvering with  |
|            |     a minimum diameter of\                              |
|            |     5 feet                                              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have a minimum 4 foot clear area in front of all    |
|            |     fixtures, and                                       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be made of flooring material that is non-slip under |
|            |     both wet and dry\                                   |
|            |     conditions.                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Bathroom Requirements, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Toilets must have:                                    |
| Toilets {# |                                                         |
| toilets .u | -   a 3 foot clear access for a wheelchair to the side  |
| nnumbered} |     of the toilet for side\                             |
|            |     transfer                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   a 4 foot clear area in front of the toilet for      |
|            |     access                                              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   grab bars installed on the wall to the side and     |
|            |     rear of the toilet which must                       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | ```{=html}                                              |
|            | <!-- -->                                                |
|            | ```                                                     |
|            | -   support a minimum dead weight of 250 pounds (more   |
|            |     if necessary)                                       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be a minimum diameter of 1-1/2 inch                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   extend 12 inches past the front of the toilet       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have a minimum of 1-1/2 inch to a maximum of 2      |
|            |     inches clearance to\                                |
|            |     the mounting surface, and                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be at approximately 2 feet 9 inches height or at a  |
|            |     height that is\                                     |
|            |     convenient to the veteran's needs.                  |
|            |                                                         |
|            | > ***Note***: The veteran has a choice to install a     |
|            | > raised toilet fixture or seat.                        |
|            | >                                                       |
|            | > ***Reminder***: Each veteran has individual needs and |
|            | > the SAH agent must research those needs and be        |
|            | > considerate of them. Some variations in the MPRs are  |
|            | > allowable with the proper waiver request.             |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > All pipes and radiators must be installed to minimize |
|  Pipes and | > the possibility of burns and abrasions.               |
|  Radiators | >                                                       |
|            | > ***IMPORTANT***: Plumbing under the sink or vanity    |
|            | > must be wrapped or covered to preclude accidental     |
|            | > contact by the veteran.                               |
|            | >                                                       |
|            | > ***Rationale***: Contact with plumbing could cause    |
|            | > burns, abrasions, and dislodging of plumbing.         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Bathroom Requirements, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Vanity countertops must:                              |
| # Vanity C |                                                         |
| ountertops | -   be a maximum height of 2 feet, 10 inches            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have a minimum height under the counter of 2 feet 3 |
|            |     inches                                              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be a minimum depth of 2 feet 3 inches               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have a 3 foot wide under-counter knee space for     |
|            |     wheelchair access                                   |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be conveniently located for the veteran's use       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have rounded corners, and                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have a Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI) electrical    |
|            |     outlet located for ease of\                         |
|            |     access to the veteran.                              |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***Note***: In most cases, the sink is included   |
|            |     > as part of the vanity countertop, but a pedestal  |
|            |     > or wall hanging sink is allowed provided it       |
|            |     > allows unrestricted maneuverability.              |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > All sinks must:                                       |
| ### Sinks  |                                                         |
| {#sinks .u | -   be a maximum height of 2 feet 10 inches             |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   have a minimum height under the sinks of 2 feet 3   |
|            |     inches                                              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have a minimum depth of 2 feet 3 inches             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have a 3 foot wide knee space for wheelchair access |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be located conveniently for the veteran's use and   |
|            |     allow the veteran easy\                             |
|            |     access for personal hygiene needs                   |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have single lever faucet control located within     |
|            |     easy reach from the\                                |
|            |     wheelchair, and                                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have plumbing that is wrapped or covered to prevent |
|            |     the veteran from\                                   |
|            |     abrasions or burns upon contact.                    |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Mirrors must be lowered or tilted to accommodate an   |
| Mirrors {# | > individual in a seated position. Maximum height of    |
| mirrors .u | > the bottom edge of a mirror is 3 feet.                |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Bathroom Requirements, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Medicine cabinets (if installed) must:                |
| Medicine C |                                                         |
| abinets {# | -   be installed to allow easy wheelchair access        |
| medicine-c |                                                         |
| abinets .u | -   have a height and location convenient for the       |
| nnumbered} |     veteran's use, and                                  |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have adequate drawers and storage space for the     |
|            |     veteran's personal\                                 |
|            |     hygiene equipment.                                  |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Passage doorways to the bathroom must:                |
| # Passage  |                                                         |
| Doorways { | -   have a minimum opening of 36 inches                 |
| #passage-d |                                                         |
| oorways .u | -   swing out of the bathroom or be pocket doors, and   |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   not obstruct wheelchair maneuvering when opened.    |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > A roll-in shower is required and a tub is optional.   |
| ### Roll-I | > The table below describes the roll-in shower          |
| n Showers  | > requirements.                                         |
| {#roll-in- |                                                         |
| showers .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+
| Item      | Requirement                                              |
+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+
| *Roll-in  |                                                          |
| Shower    |                                                          |
| Req       |                                                          |
| uirements |                                                          |
| for       |                                                          |
| Existing  |                                                          |
| Cons      |                                                          |
| truction* |                                                          |
+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+
| D         | -   A minimum of 4 feet by 4 feet interior finish, and   |
| imensions |                                                          |
|           | -   a minimum opening of 36 inches.                      |
+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+
| Slope     | A maximum floor slope of ¼ inch to 12 inches (1-inch     |
|           | slope from front to rear in a 4-foot deep roll-in        |
|           | shower).                                                 |
+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+
| Flooring  | Non-slip flooring.                                       |
+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+
| Drain     | If a roll-in shower is:                                  |
|           |                                                          |
|           | -   built onsite, the floor drain must be                |
|           |                                                          |
|           | ```{=html}                                               |
|           | <!-- -->                                                 |
|           | ```                                                      |
|           | -   2 inches                                             |
|           |                                                          |
|           | -   located to the rear of the shower floor.             |
|           |                                                          |
|           | ```{=html}                                               |
|           | <!-- -->                                                 |
|           | ```                                                      |
|           | -   pre-manufactured, the minimum floor drain is 1-1/2\  |
|           |     inches, but a 2 inch drain is required if it is      |
|           |                                                          |
|           | ```{=html}                                               |
|           | <!-- -->                                                 |
|           | ```                                                      |
|           | -   possible to install, or                              |
|           |                                                          |
|           | -   an option of the manufacturer.                       |
+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+
| Curbs     | Curbs *cannot* be installed to separate the shower from  |
|           | the rest of the bathroom.                                |
+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+
| Built-in  | A built-in bench is the veteran's option; it is not a    |
| benches   | requirement.                                             |
|           |                                                          |
|           | ***Note:*** To ensure an unobstructed area of 4 feet by  |
|           | 4 feet, use of a fold-up bench is recommended.           |
+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Bathroom Requirements, Continued

  -----------------------------------------------------------------------
  Roll-In Showers (continued)

  -----------------------------------------------------------------------

+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+
| **Item**  | **Requirement**                                          |
+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+
| *         |                                                          |
| **Roll-in |                                                          |
| shower    |                                                          |
| Req       |                                                          |
| uirements |                                                          |
| for New   |                                                          |
| Constr    |                                                          |
| uction*** |                                                          |
+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+
| D         | -   A minimum of 5 feet by 5 feet interior finish, and   |
| imensions |                                                          |
|           | -   a minimum opening of 36 inches.                      |
+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+
| Slope     | A maximum floor slope of ¼ inch to 12 inches (1¼ -inch   |
|           | slope from front to rear in a 5-foot deep roll-in        |
|           | shower).                                                 |
+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+
| Flooring  | Non-slip flooring.                                       |
+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+
| Drain     | If a roll-in shower is:                                  |
|           |                                                          |
|           | -   built onsite, the floor drain must be                |
|           |                                                          |
|           | ```{=html}                                               |
|           | <!-- -->                                                 |
|           | ```                                                      |
|           | -   2 inches, and                                        |
|           |                                                          |
|           | -   located to the rear of the shower floor.             |
|           |                                                          |
|           | ```{=html}                                               |
|           | <!-- -->                                                 |
|           | ```                                                      |
|           | -   pre-manufactured, the minimum floor drain is 1-1/2\  |
|           |     inches, but a 2 inch drain is required if it is      |
|           |                                                          |
|           | ```{=html}                                               |
|           | <!-- -->                                                 |
|           | ```                                                      |
|           | -   possible to install, or                              |
|           |                                                          |
|           | -   an option of the manufacturer.                       |
+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+
| Curbs     | Curbs *cannot* be installed to separate the shower from  |
|           | the rest of the bathroom.                                |
+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+
| Built-in  | A built-in bench is the veteran's option; it is not a    |
| benches   | requirement.                                             |
|           |                                                          |
|           | ***Note:*** To ensure an unobstructed area of 5 feet by  |
|           | 5 feet, use of a fold-up bench is recommended.           |
+-----------+----------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Bathroom Requirements, Continued

  -----------------------------------------------------------------------
  Roll-In Showers (continued)

  -----------------------------------------------------------------------

+----------+-----------------------------------------------------------+
| **Item** | **Requirements**                                          |
+----------+-----------------------------------------------------------+
| **       |                                                           |
| *Roll-in |                                                           |
| shower   |                                                           |
| Require  |                                                           |
| ments*** |                                                           |
+----------+-----------------------------------------------------------+
| Shower   | The shower head must be:                                  |
| head     |                                                           |
|          | -   hand held, and                                        |
|          |                                                           |
|          | -   detachable from a sliding bar.                        |
+----------+-----------------------------------------------------------+
| Controls | Controls must:                                            |
|          |                                                           |
|          | -   be accessible from the wheelchair for water           |
|          |     temperature\                                          |
|          |     control                                               |
|          |                                                           |
|          | -   be single lever, and                                  |
|          |                                                           |
|          | -   have thermostatic or pressure-balance control to      |
|          |     avoid\                                                |
|          |     sudden change in water temperature.                   |
+----------+-----------------------------------------------------------+
| Grab     | Grab bars installed to 3 walls of the shower must:        |
| bars     |                                                           |
|          | -   support a minimum dead weight of 250 pounds (more if\ |
|          |     necessary)                                            |
|          |                                                           |
|          | -   have a minimum of 1-1/2 inches to a maximum of 2      |
|          |     inches\                                               |
|          |     clearance from the mounting surface                   |
|          |                                                           |
|          | -   be a minimum of 1-1/2 inches diameter, and            |
|          |                                                           |
|          | -   be installed                                          |
|          |                                                           |
|          | ```{=html}                                                |
|          | <!-- -->                                                  |
|          | ```                                                       |
|          | -   approximately 2 feet 9 inches high, or                |
|          |                                                           |
|          | -   at a height that is convenient to the veteran's       |
|          |     needs.                                                |
|          |                                                           |
|          | ***Note***: In some applications it may be necessary to   |
|          | also install vertical bars. This is the veteran's option  |
|          | and the SAH agent should research and consider the needs  |
|          | of the veteran.                                           |
+----------+-----------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Bathroom Requirements, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Tubs | > A roll-in shower is required and a tub is optional.   |
|            | > The table below describes the tub requirements.       |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+-------------------+--------------------------------------------------+
| Item              | Requirement                                      |
+-------------------+--------------------------------------------------+
| Transfer          | The transfer platform must be:                   |
| platforms         |                                                  |
|                   | -   the width of the tub and a minimum of 18     |
|                   |     inches\                                      |
|                   |     in length                                    |
|                   |                                                  |
|                   | -   installed at the rear of the tub, and        |
|                   |                                                  |
|                   | -   of a height that allows ease of transfer for |
|                   |     the\                                         |
|                   |     veteran from the wheelchair.                 |
+-------------------+--------------------------------------------------+
| Faucets           | Faucets must be:                                 |
|                   |                                                  |
|                   | -   accessible from the wheelchair for water\    |
|                   |     temperature control (both when the veteran   |
|                   |     is in\                                       |
|                   |     the wheelchair and when he/she is immersed), |
|                   |     and                                          |
|                   |                                                  |
|                   | -   thermostatic or pressure-balance controlled  |
|                   |     to\                                          |
|                   |     avoid sudden change in water temperature.    |
+-------------------+--------------------------------------------------+
| Grab bars         | Grab bars installed to the side and rear wall of |
|                   | the tub must:                                    |
|                   |                                                  |
|                   | -   support a minimum dead weight of 250 pounds  |
|                   |     (or\                                         |
|                   |     more if necessary)                           |
|                   |                                                  |
|                   | -   have a minimum of 1-1/2 inches to a maximum  |
|                   |     of\                                          |
|                   |     2 inches clearance from inside the bar to    |
|                   |     the wall                                     |
|                   |                                                  |
|                   | -   be a minimum of 1-1/2 inches diameter, and   |
|                   |                                                  |
|                   | -   be installed at a height that is convenient  |
|                   |     to the\                                      |
|                   |     veteran's needs.                             |
|                   |                                                  |
|                   |     ***Note***: In some applications it may be   |
|                   |     necessary to also install vertical bars.     |
|                   |     This is the veteran's option and the SAH     |
|                   |     agent should research and consider the needs |
|                   |     of the veteran.                              |
+-------------------+--------------------------------------------------+
| Access            | There must be an unobstructed 4-foot clear area  |
|                   | to the side of the tub.                          |
+-------------------+--------------------------------------------------+

#### Bedroom Requirements {#bedroom-requirements .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This topic contains information about bedroom         |
| troduction | > requirements.                                         |
|  {#introdu |                                                         |
| ction-8 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Bedrooms must:                                        |
| Requiremen |                                                         |
| ts {#requi | -   allow at least one clear area for maneuvering with  |
| rements .u |     a minimum diameter of\                              |
| nnumbered} |     5 feet                                              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have a minimum 4-foot clear access to the closet    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have a minimum of 3 feet provided on at least one   |
|            |     side of the bed for\                                |
|            |     transfer                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have a clear minimum opening of 4 feet between the  |
|            |     end of the bed and\                                 |
|            |     the opposing wall                                   |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be accessible from a wheelchair                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   provide a direct means of emergency egress from the |
|            |     adaptive bedroom\                                   |
|            |     area, and                                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | ```{=html}                                              |
|            | <!-- -->                                                |
|            | ```                                                     |
|            | -   be clear of potential fire hazards.                 |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Kitchen Requirements {#kitchen-requirements .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This topic contains information about kitchen         |
| troduction | > requirements, including:                              |
|  {#introdu |                                                         |
| ction-9 .u | -   required dimensions                                 |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   work counters                                       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   ovens/ranges                                        |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   storage areas                                       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   cabinets                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   electrical outlets                                  |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   electrical switches                                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   sinks, and                                          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   appliances.                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Requ | > The kitchen arrangement must:                         |
| ired Dimen |                                                         |
| sions {#re | -   allow for adequate maneuvering room for the         |
| quired-dim |     veteran, and                                        |
| ensions .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   be a clear area with a minimum 5 foot by 5 foot     |
|            |     turning radius.                                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     ***Reminder:*** This Minimum Property Requirement   |
|            |     (MPR) must be incorporated in all cases.            |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####  {#  | ***Special Note:*** Each veteran has individual needs   |
| section .u | and the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) agent must      |
| nnumbered} | research and be considerate of those needs, which may   |
|            | not require kitchen adaptations. Installation of any    |
| #          | special feature must meet MPRs; however, variations are |
| ####  {#se | allowable with the proper waiver request.               |
| ction-1 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Wo   | > Standard counter heights are acceptable, but a        |
| rk Counter | > minimum of one work counter must:                     |
| s {#work-c |                                                         |
| ounters .u | -   be a minimum width of 3 feet wide                   |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   be a maximum height of 2 feet, 10 inches, and       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have sufficient space underneath to accommodate the |
|            |     needs of the veteran\                               |
|            |     in a wheelchair.                                    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | > ***Rationale***: One veteran may sit higher or lower  |
|            | > than another or have a longer or shorter reach, etc.  |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Kitchen Requirements, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Ovens/Ranges must:                                    |
|  Ovens/Ran |                                                         |
| ges {#oven | -   be installed at a level convenient for each         |
| sranges .u |     individual veteran, and                             |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   include a separate built-in range countertop with   |
|            |                                                         |
|            | ```{=html}                                              |
|            | <!-- -->                                                |
|            | ```                                                     |
|            | -   sufficient space underneath to accommodate the      |
|            |     needs of the veteran\                               |
|            |     in a wheelchair, and                                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   controls toward the front/side for easy access.     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | > A free standing oven/range must:                      |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be located at the end of the cabinets so that the   |
|            |     veteran has side access to\                         |
|            |     the oven/range , and                                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have front/side controls.                           |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### St   | > Storage areas must:                                   |
| orage Area |                                                         |
| s {#storag | -   be accessible from a wheelchair, and                |
| e-areas .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   contain pullout shelving.                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***IMPORTANT***: Revolving shelves (which are     |
|            |     > usually built in a corner) should be avoided,     |
|            |     > unless there is ease of access from a wheelchair. |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Ca   | > Standard cabinet heights are acceptable but must      |
| binets {#c | > have:                                                 |
| abinets .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   a minimum 3 foot wide opening under the kitchen     |
|            |     sink for wheelchair\                                |
|            |     access, and                                         |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   slide out drawers and shelves in the lower          |
|            |     cabinets.                                           |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### El   | > Electrical outlets must be mounted so that they are   |
| ectrical O | > accessible to the veteran while seated in the         |
| utlets {#e | > wheelchair. Outlets near sinks must be of GFI type.   |
| lectrical- |                                                         |
| outlets .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Kitchen Requirements, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Elec | > Electrical switches must be mounted on the face of    |
| trical Swi | > the cabinet or conveniently placed for the veteran's  |
| tches {#el | > use of the:                                           |
| ectrical-s |                                                         |
| witches .u | -   garbage disposal                                    |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   vent fan                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   range hood, and                                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   lights.                                             |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > The table below describes the considerations for      |
| # Sinks {# | > sinks.                                                |
| sinks-1 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
| Item           | Requirement                                         |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
| Accessibility  | Adequate space, with a minimum of a 3-foot wide     |
|                | opening under the kitchen sink, must be provided to |
|                | accommodate the veteran in a wheelchair.            |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
| Depth          | The basin must be shallow enough to allow for a     |
|                | minimum 2-foot, 3-inch clearance from the bottom of |
|                | the basin to the floor, so that the veteran's       |
|                | access under the kitchen sink is not impeded.       |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
| Pipes          | Pipes should be wrapped to prevent burns and        |
|                | abrasions.                                          |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
| Faucets        | Sink faucets must be a single-lever type to allow:  |
|                |                                                     |
|                | -   ease of operation, and                          |
|                |                                                     |
|                | -   adjustment of water temperature.                |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
| Disposal       | Separate disposal sinks must be installed.          |
|                |                                                     |
|                | ***Note***: For a sink/disposal combination, the    |
|                | disposal sink should be offset so that the veteran  |
|                | has full wheelchair access.                         |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
| Hose spray     | A hose spray must be provided.                      |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > Any special type of appliances to aid the veteran     |
| ### Applia | > must be included in the kitchen (that is, a           |
| nces {#app | > dishwasher, food warmer, microwaves, etc.).           |
| liances .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | > Refrigerators must be:                                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   a double door, side-by-side refrigerator/freezer    |
|            |     combination, for\                                   |
|            |     convenience and easy access, and                    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   located where there is ample wheelchair             |
|            |     maneuverability when the door\                      |
|            |     of the refrigerator is open.                        |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Maintenance Requirements {#maintenance-requirements .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about maintenance     |
| roduction  | > requirements, including:                              |
| {#introduc |                                                         |
| tion-10 .u | -   a reminder, and                                     |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   requirements for                                    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | ```{=html}                                              |
|            | <!-- -->                                                |
|            | ```                                                     |
|            | -   the exterior of the home, and                       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   additional products or items.                       |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Disabled veterans should consider homes with little   |
| # Reminder | > or no maintenance.                                    |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Below is a list of maintenance requirements for the   |
| Exterior o | > exterior of the home.                                 |
| f the Home |                                                         |
|            | -   The total exterior of proposed construction must be |
|            |     maintenance-free,\                                  |
|            |     including window, doors, and siding.                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   When a new adapted addition is added to the         |
|            |     existing home, it is\                               |
|            |     acceptable to install maintenance-free materials to |
|            |     the existing home to\                               |
|            |     match the new addition.                             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   When adapting an existing home, including a new     |
|            |     room addition, the\                                 |
|            |     veteran may choose to use similar materials as the  |
|            |     existing structure.\                                |
|            |     However, strongly encourage the veteran to use      |
|            |     maintenance-free exterior\                          |
|            |     materials.                                          |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***Note***: Installation of maintenance-free      |
|            |     > materials is allowable if all other Minimum       |
|            |     > Property Requirements are met.                    |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Ad   | > Include products or items that make maintenance easy. |
| ditional P |                                                         |
| roducts or | > ***Example***: Pivoting windows offer easy            |
|  Items {#a | > maintenance because they are hinged so the exterior   |
| dditional- | > may be cleaned from the inside.                       |
| products-o |                                                         |
| r-items .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Heating and Air Conditioning Requirements {#heating-and-air-conditioning-requirements .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about heating and air |
| roduction  | > conditioning requirements, including:                 |
| {#introduc |                                                         |
| tion-11 .u | -   feasibility of installation, and                    |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   controls.                                           |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Heating installation must:                            |
| Heating {# |                                                         |
| heating .u | -   meet or exceed building code requirements (see      |
| nnumbered} |     Chapter 9, Section F),\                             |
|            |     and                                                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            | ```{=html}                                              |
|            | <!-- -->                                                |
|            | ```                                                     |
|            | -   be adequate for healthful and comfortable living    |
|            |     conditions.                                         |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***Note***: Because of a veteran's disability, it |
|            |     > may be necessary to add zoned heating or          |
|            |     > additional heating to some rooms of the home.     |
|            |     > This is the veteran's option and the Specially    |
|            |     > Adapted Housing (SAH) agent should research and   |
|            |     > consider the needs of the veteran.                |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > The installation of air conditioning is not required; |
| # Air Cond | > however, a veteran's disability may dictate the need  |
| itioning { | > for air conditioning. The air conditioning can be     |
| #air-condi | > installed as central or an individual room unit.      |
| tioning .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | > ***Note***: This is the veteran's option and the SAH  |
|            | > agent should research and consider the needs of the   |
|            | > veteran.                                              |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Thermostats must:                                     |
| # Thermost |                                                         |
| ats {#ther | -   be installed at a maximum height of 48 inches, and  |
| mostats .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   have unobstructed access from a wheelchair.         |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > In an existing home, thermostats can remain at    |
|            |     > standard heights, as long as the veteran can      |
|            |     > reach them. If the thermostats are moved for      |
|            |     > remodeling or installed for a new addition, the   |
|            |     > thermostats must be installed within the Minimum  |
|            |     > Property Requirement height.                      |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Electrical Requirements {#electrical-requirements .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about electrical      |
| roduction  | > requirements, including:                              |
| {#introduc |                                                         |
| tion-12 .u | -   wall switches and electrical outlets                |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   electrical utility boxes                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   other utility and appliance controls, and           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   garage electrical.                                  |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Wall switches and electrical outlets must:            |
| # Wall Swi |                                                         |
| tches and  | -   be a minimum of 18 inches and a maximum of 48       |
| Electrical |     inches from the floor,\                             |
|  Outlets { |     and                                                 |
| #wall-swit |                                                         |
| ches-and-e | -   have unobstructed access from the wheelchair.       |
| lectrical- |                                                         |
| outlets .u |     > Any electrical outlets near water (near a         |
| nnumbered} |     > bathroom vanity, tub, shower, kitchen sink, or    |
|            |     > laundry tub) must be of GFI type.                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > In an existing home, outlets and switches can     |
|            |     > remain at standard heights, as long as the        |
|            |     > veteran can reach them. If the switches and       |
|            |     > outlets are moved for remodeling or a new         |
|            |     > addition, the relocated switches and outlets must |
|            |     > be installed within the Minimum Property          |
|            |     > Requirement (MPR) height.                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Elec | > In new homes, the electrical utility boxes must be    |
| trical Uti | > located so that the veteran has unobstructed access   |
| lity Boxes | > from the wheelchair. Maximum height of the top        |
|  {#electri | > breaker is 48 inches. The breaker box must be near an |
| cal-utilit | > egress point.                                         |
| y-boxes .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | > In an existing home, the electrical utility box can   |
|            | > remain in the existing location. Moving the           |
|            | > electrical utility box is an option for the veteran.  |
|            | > However, if the utility box of an exiting home is     |
|            | > moved, it must meet the MPR of a new home.            |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > Other utility and appliance controls must be within   |
| ### Other  | > the veteran's reach from his/her wheelchair.          |
| Utility an |                                                         |
| d Applianc |                                                         |
| e Control  |                                                         |
| {#other-ut |                                                         |
| ility-and- |                                                         |
| appliance- |                                                         |
| control .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Electrical Requirements, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Garage door openers must be automatic with direct     |
| Garage Ele | > control, opening with either a:                       |
| ctrical {# |                                                         |
| garage-ele | -   remote control, or                                  |
| ctrical .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   button.                                             |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > The veteran must have adequate electrical outlets |
|            |     > for his/her adaptive equipment needs.             |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Security and Emergency Equipment Requirements {#security-and-emergency-equipment-requirements .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about security and    |
| roduction  | > emergency equipment requirements, including:          |
| {#introduc |                                                         |
| tion-13 .u | -   smoke detectors                                     |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   additional emergency equipment, and                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   lighting.                                           |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > Smoke detectors must be:                              |
| ### Smoke  |                                                         |
| Detectors  | -   installed according to local and Federal            |
| {#smoke-de |     regulations, which require the\                     |
| tectors .u |     installation of smoke detectors in each living      |
| nnumbered} |     unit, including                                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | ```{=html}                                              |
|            | <!-- -->                                                |
|            | ```                                                     |
|            | -   the main portion of any living area in all levels   |
|            |     of the home, and                                    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   at the entrance to each bedroom.                    |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > The following additional emergency equipment is       |
| ### Additi | > acceptable:                                           |
| onal Emerg |                                                         |
| ency Equip | -   a security alarm system                             |
| ment {#add |                                                         |
| itional-em | -   interior/exterior phone outlets                     |
| ergency-eq |                                                         |
| uipment .u | -   an intercom system                                  |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   a carbon monoxide detecting unit, and               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   delay door closures, so that the door does not      |
|            |     close on the veteran while\                         |
|            |     passing through them.                               |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Li   | > Any exits from the home and in the interior of the    |
| ghting {#l | > garage must be well lighted for security and safety.  |
| ighting .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Door, Window, and Flooring Requirements {#door-window-and-flooring-requirements .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about door, window,   |
| roduction  | > and flooring requirements.                            |
| {#introduc |                                                         |
| tion-14 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Ing  | > Ingress/egress exterior doors must have:              |
| ress/Egres |                                                         |
| s Exterior | -   a minimum opening of 36 inches wide (*sliding patio |
|  Doors {#i |     doors must be a\                                    |
| ngressegre |     minimum of 7 feet wide to accommodate the 36 inch   |
| ss-exterio |     opening*)                                           |
| r-doors .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   a maximum height of a ½ inch for tracks for patio   |
|            |     doors                                               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   a maximum threshold height of ½ inch for hinged     |
|            |     doors, and                                          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   a 5 foot by 5 foot non-slip (in both wet and dry    |
|            |     conditions) flooring area\                          |
|            |     at the exit doorways inside the home.               |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Windows must:                                         |
| Windows {# |                                                         |
| windows .u | -   be operational from the wheelchair in a seated      |
| nnumbered} |     position                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have a maximum sill height of 2 feet, 9 inches      |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   be located to allow the veteran maximum visibility  |
|            |     to the exterior of the\                             |
|            |     home                                                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have maintenance-free frames (aluminum, vinyl), and |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   have locks that are operational from the wheelchair |
|            |     while in a seated\                                  |
|            |     position.                                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***Note***: Many window designs have a lock       |
|            |     > system at the upper portion of the window or have |
|            |     > a dual locking system, which cannot be operated   |
|            |     > from a seated position.                           |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Floo | > Flooring must not impede wheelchair maneuverability.  |
| ring {#flo | > Flooring at the exit doorways inside the home must be |
| oring-1 .u | > of non-slip materials under both wet and dry          |
| nnumbered} | > conditions.                                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | > ***Note***: Carpet is *not* considered a non-slip     |
|            | > material.                                             |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Door, Window, and Flooring Requirements, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Carp | > Carpeting must be:                                    |
| eting {#ca |                                                         |
| rpeting .u | -   low pile and closely woven, and                     |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   padded with a durable fiber type.                   |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***Note***: Rubber padding is not acceptable      |
|            |     > because it does not hold up under the stress of   |
|            |     > wheelchair turns and traffic.                     |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Laundry Appliance Requirements

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about laundry         |
| roduction  | > appliance requirements.                               |
| {#introduc |                                                         |
| tion-15 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Re   | -   There must be a 5 foot by 5 foot turning radius in  |
| quirements |     > front of all laundry appliances.                  |
|  {#require |                                                         |
| ments-1 .u | -   All laundry appliances must be front loading, to    |
| nnumbered} |     > accommodate the needs of the veteran.             |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

##  {#section-2 .unnumbered}

##  {#section-3 .unnumbered}

##  {#section-4 .unnumbered}

##  {#section-5 .unnumbered}

##  {#section-6 .unnumbered}

##  {#section-7 .unnumbered}

##  {#section-8 .unnumbered}

##  {#section-9 .unnumbered}

##  {#section-10 .unnumbered}

##  {#section-11 .unnumbered}

##  {#section-12 .unnumbered}

##  {#section-13 .unnumbered}

##  {#section-14 .unnumbered}

##  {#section-15 .unnumbered}

##  {#section-16 .unnumbered}

##  {#section-17 .unnumbered}

## Section C Requirements for Condominiums and Townhouses {#section-c-requirements-for-condominiums-and-townhouses .unnumbered}

#### Overview {#overview-3 .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about requirements    |
| roduction  | > for condominiums and townhouses.                      |
| {#introduc |                                                         |
| tion-16 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > This section includes the topic "Condominium and      |
| # In this  | > Townhouse Requirements."                              |
| Section {# |                                                         |
| in-this-se |                                                         |
| ction-2 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Condominium and Townhouse Requirements {#condominium-and-townhouse-requirements .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about condominium and |
| roduction  | > townhouse requirements, including:                    |
| {#introduc |                                                         |
| tion-17 .u | -   requirements for units above the first floor        |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   ingress and egress                                  |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   evacuations and safety considerations               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   windows, and                                        |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   balconies.                                          |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > It is most desirable that all veterans reside in a    |
| Requiremen | > condominium or townhouse located on the first floor.  |
| ts for Uni | > However, if a veteran desires a condominium or        |
| ts Located | > townhouse located above the first floor of a low or   |
|  Above the | > high rise structure, there are requirements           |
|  First Flo | > regarding:                                            |
| or {#requi |                                                         |
| rements-fo | -   ingress and egress                                  |
| r-units-lo |                                                         |
| cated-abov | -   emergency access                                    |
| e-the-firs |                                                         |
| t-floor .u | -   windows, and                                        |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   balconies.                                          |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > At least one suitable means of access must be         |
| gress and  | > provided to furnish the veteran with level ingress    |
| Egress {#i | > and egress from the condominium or townhouse.         |
| ngress-and |                                                         |
| -egress .u | -   If the structure does not provide one level means   |
| nnumbered} |     of access to the unit;\                             |
|            |     ramps, ramp platforms, and elevators may be         |
|            |     utilized, when necessary, to\                       |
|            |     eliminate any elevation difference between interior |
|            |     and exterior floor\                                 |
|            |     levels.                                             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   If the condominium or townhouse is located above    |
|            |     the first floor, a single\                          |
|            |     Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) qualified exit is   |
|            |     acceptable.                                         |
|            |                                                         |
|            | > ***Note***: All other specially adapted features are  |
|            | > required under this variation, with the exception of  |
|            | > the requirement for two emergency exits.              |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Condominium and Townhouse Requirements, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > The table below describes the evacuation and safety   |
| Evacuation | > requirements.                                         |
| s and Safe |                                                         |
| ty Conside |                                                         |
| rations {# |                                                         |
| evacuation |                                                         |
| s-and-safe |                                                         |
| ty-conside |                                                         |
| rations .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| Item            | Requirement                                        |
+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| Exterior        | -   The condominium or townhouse must be           |
| emergency       |     accessible\                                    |
| access          |     to fire fighting and evacuation equipment from |
|                 |     the\                                           |
|                 |     exterior of the unit.                          |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | -   The location of the veteran's condominium or\  |
|                 |     townhouse unit must be registered with local   |
|                 |     fire\                                          |
|                 |     authority and emergency rescue units.          |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 |     ***Note***: Keep in mind that no unit can be   |
|                 |     higher than the highest emergency evacuation   |
|                 |     ladder system. The SAH agent must check with   |
|                 |     the fire department that services the area of  |
|                 |     the condominium or townhouse location for the  |
|                 |     height of their evacuation equipment.          |
+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| Interior        | -   If the veteran is completely bedridden, the\   |
| emergency       |     condominium or townhouse must contain an\      |
| access          |     externally mounted electrical device           |
|                 |     (audible,\                                     |
|                 |     visible, etc.) which, when activated from the  |
|                 |     interior\                                      |
|                 |     of the unit, aids a fire or emergency rescue   |
|                 |     service\                                       |
|                 |     to locate the veteran's unit.                  |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | -   The bedroom window of the unit must:           |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | ```{=html}                                         |
|                 | <!-- -->                                           |
|                 | ```                                                |
|                 | -   be of sufficient size to allow access by\      |
|                 |     emergency personnel, and                       |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | -   have exterior marking to show the location of\ |
|                 |     this room.                                     |
+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ###        | > All windows in the condominium or townhouse must be   |
| ## Windows | > large enough to be accessible to emergency personnel  |
|            | > for entry and evacuation purposes.                    |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Veterans must be encouraged to purchase a condominium |
|  Balconies | > or townhouse with balconies that are accessible to    |
|            | > emergency personnel and wheelchair users.             |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+