## Chapter 10 Allowable Adaptations for Special Housing Adaptations (SHA), SHA Site Reviews, and SHA Bid/Proposal/Contract Reviews

#### Overview

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This chapter contains information about allowable     |
| troduction | > adaptations for Special Housing Adaptations (SHA),    |
|            | > SHA site reviews, and SHA bid/proposal/contract       |
|            | > reviews, including:                                   |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   allowable adaptations                               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   the existing home inspection                        |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   interviews                                          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   construction plans and bid/proposal/contract, and   |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   inspection schedules.                               |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > This chapter includes the following sections:         |
| ### In thi |                                                         |
| s Chapter  |                                                         |
| {#in-this- |                                                         |
| chapter .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

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

  A          Allowable Adaptations for Special Housing       10-A-1
             Adaptations (SHA) Cases                         

  B          Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) Existing Home 10-B-1
             Inspections                                     

  C          Interviews with the Architect and/or Contractor 10-C-1

  D          Special Housing Adaptations (SHA)               10-D-1
             Bids/Proposals/Contracts                        

  E          Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) Construction  10-E-1
             Plans                                           

  F          Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) Inspection    10-F-1
             Schedule and Assignment of a Department of      
             Veterans Affairs (VA) Compliance Inspector      
  ---------- ----------------------------------------------- ------------

## Section A Allowable Adaptations for Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) Cases {#section-a-allowable-adaptations-for-special-housing-adaptations-sha-cases .unnumbered}

#### Overview {#overview-1 .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This section contains information about allowable     |
| troduction | > adaptations for Special Housing Adaptations (SHA)     |
|  {#introdu | > cases, including allowable adaptations for:           |
| ction-1 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   blindness in both eyes with a 5/200 visual acuity   |
|            |     or less                                             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   loss of or loss of use of both hands, and           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   secondary disabilities.                             |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

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

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

  1          General Information About Allowable Adaptations 10-A-2
             for Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) Cases     

  2          Allowable Adaptations for Blindness in Both     10-A-3
             Eyes with a 5/200 Visual Acuity or Less         

  3          Allowable Adaptations for Loss of or Loss of    10-A-8
             Use of Both Hands                               

  4          Allowable Adaptations for Secondary             10-A-9
             Disabilities                                    
  ---------- ----------------------------------------------- ------------

#### General Information About Allowable Adaptations for Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) Cases {#general-information-about-allowable-adaptations-for-special-housing-adaptations-sha-cases .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This topic contains general information about         |
| troduction | > allowable adaptations for Special Housing Adaptations |
|  {#introdu | > (SHA) cases, including allowable adaptations based on |
| ction-2 .u | > disability type.                                      |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Stat | > Title 38 United States Code (U.S.C.) Chapter 21 or    |
| utory Refe | > sections 36.4401 through 35.4410 is the governing law |
| rence {#st | > that states SHA grants must be made available for     |
| atutory-re | > adaptations determined to be reasonably necessary by  |
| ference .u | > the nature of the veteran's disability.               |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > The adaptations deemed allowable in SHA cases depend  |
| # Allowabl | > on the following types of disabilities:               |
| e Adaptati |                                                         |
| ons Based  | -   blindness in both eyes with a 5/200 visual acuity   |
| on Disabil |     or less                                             |
| ity Type { |                                                         |
| #allowable | -   loss or loss of use of both hands, and              |
| -adaptatio |                                                         |
| ns-based-o | -   secondary disabilities.                             |
| n-disabili |                                                         |
| ty-type .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Allowable Adaptations for Blindness in Both Eyes with a 5/200 Visual Acuity or Less {#allowable-adaptations-for-blindness-in-both-eyes-with-a-5200-visual-acuity-or-less .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This topic contains information about allowable       |
| troduction | > adaptations for blindness in both eyes with a 5/200   |
|  {#introdu | > visual acuity or less, including:                     |
| ction-3 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   the veteran's freedom of choice                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   special lighting                                    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   sliding doors                                       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   handrails/grab bars                                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide detectors          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   security items                                      |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   room additions                                      |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   covered porches                                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   concrete or asphalt walkways                        |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   fencing                                             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   electrical service                                  |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   swimming pools, and                                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   safety defect corrections.                          |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > It is not required that the veteran adapt the home    |
| Freedom of | > with every allowable adaptation item. The veteran has |
|  Choice {# | > the freedom of choice as to which adaptations he/she  |
| freedom-of | > will complete with the Special Housing Adaptations    |
| -choice .u | > (SHA) Grant Program. If the veteran wants to add any  |
| nnumbered} | > additional adaptation items that are not included in  |
|            | > the allowable adaptations list, approval must first   |
|            | > be received from Central Office (CO).                 |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Allowable Adaptations for Blindness in Both Eyes with a 5/200 Visual
Acuity or Less, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Allowable adaptations for lighting include:           |
| # Special  |                                                         |
| Lighting { | -   florescent                                          |
| #special-l |                                                         |
| ighting .u | -   high intensity                                      |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   open, or                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   indirect.                                           |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Sl   | > Allowable adaptations for doors include:              |
| iding Door |                                                         |
| s {#slidin | -   sliding kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors          |
| g-doors .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   pedestrian sliding doors, or                        |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   pocket doors.                                       |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***Note***: If it is not possible to adapt        |
|            |     > existing cabinets with sliding doors, new         |
|            |     > cabinets with sliding doors are acceptable.       |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #          | > Allowable adaptations for handrails and grab bars     |
| #### Handr | > include the installation of handrails or grab bars    |
| ails/ Grab | > for stability and safety in the bathroom area or any  |
|  Bars {#ha | > area that presents an unsafe condition to the veteran |
| ndrails-gr | > when maneuvering. Typical locations include the:      |
| ab-bars .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   interior walls                                      |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   walkways/sidewalks                                  |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   decks/patios                                        |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   steps                                               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   toilets                                             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   tubs, and                                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   showers.                                            |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Allowable Adaptations for Blindness in Both Eyes with a 5/200 Visual
Acuity or Less, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Smoke detectors, fire detection systems, and carbon   |
| # Smoke, F | > monoxide detectors are allowable adaptations to the   |
| ire, and C | > veteran's home.                                       |
| arbon Mono |                                                         |
| xide Detec |                                                         |
| tors {#smo |                                                         |
| ke-fire-an |                                                         |
| d-carbon-m |                                                         |
| onoxide-de |                                                         |
| tectors .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Secu | > The following security items are allowable            |
| rity Items | > adaptations:                                          |
|  {#securit |                                                         |
| y-items .u | -   security systems                                    |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   the replacement of exterior doors with solid core   |
|            |     doors                                               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   deadbolt locks                                      |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   storm shutters                                      |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   an emergency exit (for example, a level 5-foot by   |
|            |     5-foot platform with a\                             |
|            |     stairway and railings)                              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   an exterior to interior intercom system *without* a |
|            |     radio unit, and                                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   an interior home intercom system *without* a radio  |
|            |     unit.                                               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | > ***Note***: If the veteran chooses an intercom system |
|            | > with a radio, the veteran must pay the difference in  |
|            | > cost.                                                 |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Room | > Room additions to an existing home are allowable for  |
|  Additions | > the purpose of storing sensory aids or exercise       |
|  {#room-ad | > equipment.                                            |
| ditions .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | > In addition, the following adaptations are allowed:   |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   installation of a permanent heating/cooling system, |
|            |     and                                                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   storage shelving.                                   |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***Reference***: For information about the        |
|            |     > proposed construction requirements, see Chapter   |
|            |     > 10, Section E, "Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) |
|            |     > Construction Plans."                              |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Allowable Adaptations for Blindness in Both Eyes with a 5/200 Visual
Acuity or Less, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > The following adaptations regarding porches are       |
| ### Covere | > allowable:                                            |
| d Porches  |                                                         |
| {#covered- | -   awnings over the front and/or rear doors in         |
| porches .u |     moderate climate regions                            |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   the covering of an existing porch in regions of     |
|            |     severe inclement weather,\                          |
|            |     or                                                  |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   the construction of a covered porch in regions of   |
|            |     severe inclement\                                   |
|            |     weather.                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | > ***Note***: The maximum porch size is 6 feet by 8     |
|            | > feet.                                                 |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Concrete or asphalt walkways, but not driveways, are  |
| # Concrete | > allowable if the design is a new design with a        |
|  or Asphal | > minimum width of 4 feet. The installation of new      |
| t Walkways | > curbs for an existing walkway is allowable.           |
|            | >                                                       |
|            | > ***Note***: The replacement of an existing walkway    |
|            | > with the same design is a maintenance item and is     |
|            | > unacceptable.                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ###        | > The installation of fencing to overcome a hazard or   |
| ## Fencing | > safety concern is allowable.                          |
|            | >                                                       |
|            | > ***Example***: The installation of a fence at a steep |
|            | > drop or adjoining a busy street.                      |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Additional electrical switches, outlets, and service  |
|  Additiona | > capacity to accommodate sensory aids equipment are    |
| l Electric | > allowable adaptations.                                |
| al Service |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Allowable Adaptations for Blindness in Both Eyes with a 5/200 Visual
Acuity or Less, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Swim | > Swimming pools are acceptable.                        |
| ming Pools | >                                                       |
|            | > ***Note***: Grant funds *cannot* be used for spas,    |
|            | > hot tubs, saunas, etc.                                |
|            | >                                                       |
|            | > ***Exception***: The installation of spas or          |
|            | > variations of swimming pools are acceptable if        |
|            | > hydrotherapy is a prescribed treatment for the        |
|            | > veteran, and medically required.                      |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Corrections to safety defects are allowable.          |
|  Correctio | >                                                       |
| n of a Saf | > ***Examples***:                                       |
| ety Defect |                                                         |
|            | -   The replacement of a space heater with a gas forced |
|            |     air furnace system.                                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   The replacement of a gas range and oven with an     |
|            |     electric range and oven.                            |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Allowable Adaptations for Loss of or Loss of Use of Both Hands {#allowable-adaptations-for-loss-of-or-loss-of-use-of-both-hands .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This topic contains information about allowable       |
| troduction | > adaptations for loss of or loss of use of both hands, |
|  {#introdu | > including:                                            |
| ction-4 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   the veteran's freedom of choice, and                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   allowable adaptations.                              |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Fr   | > It is not required that a veteran adapt a home with   |
| eedom of C | > every allowable adaptation item. The veteran has the  |
| hoice {#fr | > freedom of choice as to which adaptations he/she will |
| eedom-of-c | > complete with the Special Housing Adaptations (SHA)   |
| hoice-1 .u | > Grant Program. If the veteran wants to add any        |
| nnumbered} | > additional adaptation items that are not included in  |
|            | > the allowable adaptations list, approval must first   |
|            | > be received from Central Office (CO).                 |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > The following items are allowable adaptations for     |
| # Allowabl | > loss of or loss of use of both hands:                 |
| e Adaptati |                                                         |
| ons {#allo | -   lever-type water faucet fixtures in the kitchen or  |
| wable-adap |     bathroom                                            |
| tations .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   quad-rubber doorknob covers or lever-type           |
|            |     latches/locks for doors                             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   the lowering of cabinets, countertops, and sinks    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   toggle or press type light switches                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   tap plates to open and close interior doors         |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   keyless entry-lock systems for exterior doors       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   automatic garage door openers                       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   circuit breaker electrical control panel            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   smoke detectors, fire detectors, and carbon         |
|            |     monoxide detection systems                          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   special plumbing fixtures                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   the replacement of single or double hung windows    |
|            |     with crank-type\                                    |
|            |     windows, and                                        |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   the correction of safety defects.                   |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Allowable Adaptations for Secondary Disabilities {#allowable-adaptations-for-secondary-disabilities .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This topic contains information about allowable       |
| troduction | > adaptations for secondary disabilities, including:    |
|  {#introdu |                                                         |
| ction-5 .u | -   the veteran's freedom of choice                     |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   a definition of the term 'secondary disability',    |
|            |     and                                                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   a list of the allowable adaptations.                |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Fr   | > It is not required that the veteran adapt the home    |
| eedom of C | > with every allowable adaptation item. The veteran has |
| hoice {#fr | > the freedom of choice as to which adaptations he/she  |
| eedom-of-c | > will complete with the Special Housing Adaptations    |
| hoice-2 .u | > (SHA) Grant Program. If the veteran wants to add any  |
| nnumbered} | > additional adaptation items that are not included in  |
|            | > the allowable adaptations list, approval must first   |
|            | > be received from Central Office (CO).                 |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > A ***secondary disability*** is a disability that     |
| Secondary  | > does not entitle a veteran to the SHA grant, whether  |
| Disabiliti | > service-connected or non-service-connected.           |
| es {#secon |                                                         |
| dary-disab |                                                         |
| ilities .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Allo | > Adaptations to address a secondary disability are     |
| wable Adap | > allowable if the condition is documented:             |
| tations fo |                                                         |
| r Secondar | -   by a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) physician, |
| y Disabili |     and                                                 |
| ties {#all |                                                         |
| owable-ada | -   in the veteran's file.                              |
| ptations-f |                                                         |
| or-seconda |     > ***Example***: Ramping for a                      |
| ry-disabil |     > blind/wheelchair-bound veteran is allowable when  |
| ities-1 .u |     > blindness is service-connected, but the           |
| nnumbered} |     > wheelchair condition is non-service connected.    |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

## Section B Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) Existing Home Inspections {#section-b-special-housing-adaptations-sha-existing-home-inspections .unnumbered}

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

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This section contains information about the Special   |
| troduction | > Housing Adaptations (SHA) existing home inspection.   |
|  {#introdu |                                                         |
| ction-6 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > This section includes the topic "Inspecting the       |
| # In this  | > Existing Home."                                       |
| Section {# |                                                         |
| in-this-se |                                                         |
| ction-1 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Inspecting the Existing Home {#inspecting-the-existing-home .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This topic contains information about inspecting the  |
| troduction | > existing home, including:                             |
|  {#introdu |                                                         |
| ction-7 .u | -   the purpose                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   when to perform                                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   considerations of the veteran's present and future  |
|            |     needs                                               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   considerations for secondary disabilities           |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   documenting the findings of the home inspection,    |
|            |     and                                                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   tasks related to the inspection.                    |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > The purpose of inspecting an existing home is to      |
| Purpose {# | > document and identify, based upon the veteran's       |
| purpose .u | > disability, the necessary adaptations that should be  |
| nnumbered} | > installed.                                            |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > Perform the inspection of the existing home:          |
| ### When t |                                                         |
| o Perform  | -   at the time of the initial interview with the       |
| {#when-to- |     veteran, or                                         |
| perform .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   upon the veteran's request.                         |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***Note***: The existing home inspection must     |
|            |     > occur prior to grant approval.                    |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| **Cons     | > When conducting an inspection of an existing home, be |
| iderations | > aware of the veteran's present needs, as well as      |
| of the     | > adaptations that may be needed to meet future needs   |
| Veteran's  | > and abilities.                                        |
| Present    |                                                         |
| and Future | > Some thought should be given to how the home will     |
| Needs**    | > accommodate the veteran should his/her condition      |
|            | > deteriorate.                                          |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > When conducting the inspection of an existing home,   |
| # Consider | > consideration must be given to adaptations needed for |
| ations for | > secondary disabilities.                               |
|  Secondary |                                                         |
|  Disabilit | > ***Reference***: For more information about secondary |
| ies {#cons | > disabilities, see Chapter 10, Section A, "Allowable   |
| iderations | > Adaptations for Secondary Disabilities."              |
| -for-secon |                                                         |
| dary-disab |                                                         |
| ilities .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Inspecting the Existing Home, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Document the findings and recommendations from the    |
| Documentin | > home inspection on the SHA Allowable Adaptations/Site |
| g the Find | > Review or a similar document. A copy of the findings  |
| ings of th | > and recommendations may be provided to the veteran.   |
| e Home Ins |                                                         |
| pection {# | > ***IMPORTANT***: Clearly explain all observations and |
| documentin | > recommendations to the veteran, so that he/she has a  |
| g-the-find | > clear understanding of the adaptations that are       |
| ings-of-th | > needed for the home.                                  |
| e-home-ins |                                                         |
| pection .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Complete the tasks in the table below to inspect the  |
| How to Ins | > exiting home.                                         |
| pect the E |                                                         |
| xisting Ho |                                                         |
| me {#how-t |                                                         |
| o-inspect- |                                                         |
| the-existi |                                                         |
| ng-home .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+-------+--------------------------------------------------------------+
| Task  | Description                                                  |
+-------+--------------------------------------------------------------+
| 1     | Document the necessary adaptations for the home on the SHA   |
|       | Allowable Adaptations/Site Review or a similar document.     |
+-------+--------------------------------------------------------------+
| 2     | -   Notify the veteran (by phone or letter) of the           |
|       |     adaptations that\                                        |
|       |     are needed for the existing home, and                    |
|       |                                                              |
|       | -   explain that he/she must provide                         |
|       |     bids/proposals/contracts for\                            |
|       |     the adaptations.                                         |
|       |                                                              |
|       |     ***Note***: Although the Department of Veterans Affairs  |
|       |     (VA) may not recommend a contractor, the Specially       |
|       |     Adapted Housing (SAH) agent may provide the veteran with |
|       |     a list of VA-approved builders in that area.             |
|       |                                                              |
|       |     ***Reference***: For more information about              |
|       |     bids/proposals/contracts, see Chapter 10, Section D,     |
|       |     "Special Housing Adaptations (SHA)                       |
|       |     Bids/Proposals/Contracts."                               |
+-------+--------------------------------------------------------------+
| 3     | Document the grant file by:                                  |
|       |                                                              |
|       | -   making a copy of the letter, or                          |
|       |                                                              |
|       | -   including a report of the telephone conversation with    |
|       |     the\                                                     |
|       |     veteran.                                                 |
+-------+--------------------------------------------------------------+

## Section C Interviews with the Architect and/or Contractor {#section-c-interviews-with-the-architect-andor-contractor .unnumbered}

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

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This section contains information about interviews    |
| troduction | > with the architect and/or contractor.                 |
|  {#introdu |                                                         |
| ction-8 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > This section includes the topic "Interviewing the     |
| # In this  | > Architect and/or Contractor."                         |
| Section {# |                                                         |
| in-this-se |                                                         |
| ction-2 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Interviewing the Architect and/or Contractor {#interviewing-the-architect-andor-contractor .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This topic contains information about interviewing    |
| troduction | > the architect and/or contractor, including:           |
|  {#introdu |                                                         |
| ction-9 .u | -   when to perform, and                                |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   a reference.                                        |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > In most Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) cases, it   |
| # When to  | > is not necessary to interview the architect and/or    |
| Perform {# | > contractor. However, an interview may be necessary    |
| when-to-pe | > when the veteran is including a room addition.        |
| rform-1 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Refe | > For more information about interviewing the architect |
| rence {#re | > and/or contractor, see Chapter 9, Section D,          |
| ference .u | > "Interviews with the Architect and/or Contractor."    |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

## Section D Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) Bids/Proposals/Contracts {#section-d-special-housing-adaptations-sha-bidsproposalscontracts .unnumbered}

#### Overview {#overview-4 .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This section contains information about Special       |
| roduction  | > Housing Adaptations (SHA) construction plans and      |
| {#introduc | > bids/proposals/contracts.                             |
| tion-10 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > This section includes the following topics:           |
| # In this  |                                                         |
| Section {# |                                                         |
| in-this-se |                                                         |
| ction-3 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+----------+-----------------------------------------------+-----------+
| Topic    | Topic Name                                    | See Page  |
+----------+-----------------------------------------------+-----------+
| 1        | General Information About the Special Housing | 10-D-2    |
|          | Adaptations (SHA) Construction Plans and      |           |
|          | Bids/Proposals/Contracts                      |           |
+----------+-----------------------------------------------+-----------+
| 2        | Components of SHA Construction                | 10-D-4    |
|          | Bids/Proposals/                               |           |
|          |                                               |           |
|          | Contracts                                     |           |
+----------+-----------------------------------------------+-----------+
| 3        | Handling Changes after Bid/Proposal/Contract  | 10-D-5    |
|          | Approval                                      |           |
+----------+-----------------------------------------------+-----------+

#### General Information About the Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) Construction Plans and Bids/Proposals/Contracts {#general-information-about-the-special-housing-adaptations-sha-construction-plans-and-bidsproposalscontracts .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about the Special     |
| roduction  | > Housing Adaptation (SHA) construction plans and       |
| {#introduc | > bids/proposals/contracts, including:                  |
| tion-11 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   determining the items (bids/proposals/contracts     |
|            |     and/or required plans) to\                          |
|            |     review                                              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   the purpose of bids/proposals/contracts             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   components of the bids/proposals/contracts to       |
|            |     review                                              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   amendments, and                                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   filing the bid/proposal/contract.                   |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Use the table to determine the appropriate items to   |
| # Determin | > review based on the type of adaptations required for  |
| ing the It | > the project.                                          |
| ems to Rev |                                                         |
| iew {#dete |                                                         |
| rmining-th |                                                         |
| e-items-to |                                                         |
| -review .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------------------------+---------------------------------------+
| If the project involves ...  | Then ...                              |
+------------------------------+---------------------------------------+
| non-extensive adaptations    | review the bids/proposals/contracts.  |
| (for example: handrails,     |                                       |
| sidewalks, fencing, etc.)    |                                       |
+------------------------------+---------------------------------------+
| a room addition              | review the:                           |
|                              |                                       |
|                              | -   bid/proposal/contract             |
|                              |                                       |
|                              | -   specifications                    |
|                              |                                       |
|                              | -   description of materials, and     |
|                              |                                       |
|                              | -   required plans.                   |
|                              |                                       |
|                              | ***Reference***: For information      |
|                              | about the required plans for SHA      |
|                              | cases, see Chapter 10, Section E      |
|                              | "Special Housing Adaptations (SHA)    |
|                              | Construction Plans."                  |
|                              |                                       |
|                              | ***Note***: The requirements for      |
|                              | plans in SHA cases are the same as    |
|                              | the requirements in Specially Adapted |
|                              | Housing (SAH) cases.                  |
+------------------------------+---------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

General Information About the Special Housing Adaptations (SHA)
Construction Plans and Bids/Proposals/Contracts, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Purp | > The purpose of fixed bids/proposals/contracts is to:  |
| ose of Bid |                                                         |
| s/Proposal | -   clearly state the scope of the work and the total   |
| s/Contract |     cost                                                |
| s {#purpos |                                                         |
| e-of-bidsp | -   protect the veteran against increases in labor and  |
| roposalsco |     material and other\                                 |
| ntracts .u |     influences                                          |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   ensure that the contractor completes the project in |
|            |     a timely manner, and                                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   protect the veteran from incurring additional costs |
|            |     above and beyond the\                               |
|            |     original bid/proposal/contract.                     |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Review the fixed bid/proposal/contract for the        |
| Components | > following components:                                 |
|  of the Bi |                                                         |
| d/Proposal | -   parties to the bid/proposal/contract                |
| / Contract |                                                         |
|  to Review | -   terms and cost of the project                       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   an escape clause, and                               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   signatures and dates from all parties.              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | > ***Reference***: For more information about the       |
|            | > required components of the contract, see "Components  |
|            | > of SHA Construction Bids/Proposals/Contracts" later   |
|            | > in this section.                                      |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Fil  | > A copy of all bids/proposals/contracts, signed by all |
| ing the Bi | > parties, must be retained in the grant file.          |
| d/Proposal |                                                         |
| / Contract |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Components of SHA Construction Bids/Proposals/Contracts

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This topic contains information about the components  |
| troduction | > of Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) construction     |
|            | > bids/proposals/contracts, including the:              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   parties to the bid/proposal/contract                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   terms and cost of the project                       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   an escape clause, and                               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   signatures and dates from all parties.              |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Term | > The bid/proposal/contract must define the terms and   |
| s and Cost | > the cost of the project so that they cannot be        |
|  {#terms-a | > changed without amendments signed by all parties.     |
| nd-cost .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Es   | > The bid/proposal/contract must include an escape      |
| cape Claus | > clause with the following statement, exactly as shown |
| e {#escape | > below:                                                |
| -clause .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | > *"This contract is conditioned in its entirety upon   |
|            | > the veteran receiving a grant under Title 38 U.S.C.   |
|            | > Chapter 21 and if this veteran does not receive this  |
|            | > grant, this contract is null and void and any and all |
|            | > monies will be returned without exception."*          |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Handling Changes after Bid/Proposal/Contract Approval {#handling-changes-after-bidproposalcontract-approval .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about handling        |
| roduction  | > changes after a bid/proposal/contract approval in a   |
| {#introduc | > Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) case, including:    |
| tion-13 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   the purpose                                         |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   when to perform, and                                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   requirements for authorization.                     |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Pu   | > The purpose of handling changes after a               |
| rpose {#pu | > bid/proposal/contract approval in a SHA case is to    |
| rpose-1 .u | > ensure that the changes are acceptable.               |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Handle the changes to an approved                     |
| # When to  | > bid/proposal/contract upon notification of changes to |
| Perform {# | > the bid/proposal/contract.                            |
| when-to-pe |                                                         |
| rform-2 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > When handling changes to a bid/proposal/contract for  |
| ### Requir | > non-extensive adaptations or proposed construction    |
| ements for | > cases, the revised bid/proposal/contract must:        |
|  Authoriza |                                                         |
| tion {#req | -   clearly identify changes and any adjustment in the  |
| uirements- |     bid/proposal/contract\                              |
| for-author |     amount, and                                         |
| ization .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   be signed by the veteran and the contractor.        |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***Note***: Copies of the approved changes,       |
|            |     > signed by all parties, to the                     |
|            |     > bid/proposal/contract or plans must be retained   |
|            |     > in the grant file.                                |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

## Section E Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) Construction Plans {#section-e-special-housing-adaptations-sha-construction-plans .unnumbered}

#### Overview {#overview-5 .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This section contains information about Special       |
| roduction  | > Housing Adaptations (SHA) construction plans,         |
| {#introduc | > including:                                            |
| tion-14 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   general information about SHA construction plans    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   obtaining the SHA construction plans and required   |
|            |     certifications                                      |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   *VA Form 26-1852*, *Description of Materials*       |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   plot and foundations plans                          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   floor and wall plans                                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   exterior and interior elevation plans, and          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   handling changes after construction plan approval.  |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > This section includes the following topics:           |
| # In this  |                                                         |
| Section {# |                                                         |
| in-this-se |                                                         |
| ction-4 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

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

  1          General Information About Special Housing       10-E-2
             Adaptations (SHA) Construction Plans            

  2          Obtaining the SHA Construction Plans and        10-E-5
             Required Certifications                         

  3          VA Form 26-1852, Description of Materials       10-E-6

  4          Plot and Foundation Plans                       10-E-7

  5          Floor and Wall Plans                            10-E-8

  6          Exterior and Interior Elevation Plans           10-E-9

  7          Handling Changes after Construction Plan        10-E-10
             Approval                                        
  ---------- ----------------------------------------------- ------------

#### General Information About Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) Construction Plans {#general-information-about-special-housing-adaptations-sha-construction-plans .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about Special Housing |
| roduction  | > Adaptations (SHA) construction plan requirements,     |
| {#introduc | > including:                                            |
| tion-15 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   an important note                                   |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   when plans are drawn                                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   number of copies                                    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   recipients, and                                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   components of the plans.                            |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### IMPO | > Never assume that all parties know what is to be      |
| RTANT {#im | > built and included, regardless of any verbal          |
| portant .u | > assurances. Unless specified in writing, work is not  |
| nnumbered} | > required to be completed or installed. Documentation  |
|            | > is critical.                                          |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > The architect and/or contractor draws up a set of     |
| ### When P | > construction plans after:                             |
| lans Are D |                                                         |
| rawn {#whe | -   the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) agent and the   |
| n-plans-ar |     architect and/or\                                   |
| e-drawn .u |     contractor have discussed:                          |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | ```{=html}                                              |
|            | <!-- -->                                                |
|            | ```                                                     |
|            | -   how the Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) will   |
|            |     be met, and                                         |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   other planning considerations, and                  |
|            |                                                         |
|            | ```{=html}                                              |
|            | <!-- -->                                                |
|            | ```                                                     |
|            | -   architect and/or contractor have gathered all the   |
|            |     needed information.                                 |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > For cases involving new construction or room          |
| # Number o | > additions, four plan sets are required. If the        |
| f Copies { | > veteran has a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)     |
| #number-of | > home loan, a fifth set is required for VA.            |
| -copies .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | > ***Exception***: The fifth set of plans is not        |
|            | > required for veterans with conventional home loans.   |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

General Information About Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) Construction
Plans, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > The following individuals should receive a copy of    |
| ### Recipi | > the plans:                                            |
| ents {#rec |                                                         |
| ipients .u | -   SAH agent                                           |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   contractor                                          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   veteran, and                                        |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   VA-assigned Compliance Inspector (CI).              |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***Note***: The SAH agent's set of plans is filed |
|            |     > in the grant file.                                |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***Reference***: For more information about the   |
|            |     > requirement for filing one set of plans in the    |
|            |     > grant file, see M26-9: "Quality Control           |
|            |     > Procedures, Loan Guaranty Operations."            |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Co   | > The table below lists the components required for     |
| mponents o | > proposed construction that need to be included when   |
| f the Plan | > the architect and/or contractor draws up a set of     |
| s {#compon | > construction plans.                                   |
| ents-of-th |                                                         |
| e-plans .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

  ----------------------------- -----------------------------------------
  Component                     Reference

  *VA Form 26-1852, Description See "VA Form 26-1852, Description of
  of Materials*                 Materials" later in this section.

  Plot plan                     See "Plot and Foundation Plans" later in
                                this section.

  Foundation plan               See "Plot and Foundation Plans" later in
                                this section.

  Floor levels/floor plans      See "Floor and Wall Plans" later in this
                                section.

  Wall detail                   See "Floor and Wall Plans" later in this
                                section.

  Interior/exterior elevations  See "Exterior and Interior Elevation
                                Plans" later in this section.

  Builder's Certification of    See "Other Required SAH Exhibits and
  Plans, Specifications, and    Certifications" in section 9-F-13.
  Site                          
  ----------------------------- -----------------------------------------

Continued on next page

General Information About Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) Construction
Plans, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Comp | ##### *Notes:*                                          |
| onents of  |                                                         |
| the Plans  | -   For remodeling cases, with a proposed addition, all |
| (continued |     items listed in the\                                |
| ) {#compon |     table are required.                                 |
| ents-of-th |                                                         |
| e-plans-co | ```{=html}                                              |
| ntinued .u | <!-- -->                                                |
| nnumbered} | ```                                                     |
|            | -   If only remodeling is involved with no room         |
|            |     addition, in many cases the\                        |
|            |     builder's work statement is acceptable provided all |
|            |     adaptations to be\                                  |
|            |     completed are clearly defined. However, in some     |
|            |     instances a floor plan\                             |
|            |     layout, with dimensions of all rooms of the         |
|            |     existing house must be\                             |
|            |     submitted, along with another set showing the       |
|            |     adaptations that are to be\                         |
|            |     completed.                                          |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > The SAH agent must inform the veteran and contractor  |
| ### Change | > that changes to plans and specifications cannot be    |
| s to Plans | > made without prior approval of the SAH agent.         |
|  and Speci |                                                         |
| fications  | > ***Reference***: For information on handling changes  |
| {#changes- | > after plan approval, see "Handling Changes after      |
| to-plans-a | > Construction Plan Approval" later in this section.    |
| nd-specifi |                                                         |
| cations .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Obtaining the SHA Construction Plans and Required Certifications {#obtaining-the-sha-construction-plans-and-required-certifications .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about obtaining the   |
| roduction  | > construction plans and required certifications,       |
| {#introduc | > including:                                            |
| tion-16 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   the purpose                                         |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   when to perform, and                                |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   how to obtain construction plans and required       |
|            |     certifications.                                     |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Pu   | > The purpose of obtaining the construction plans and   |
| rpose {#pu | > required certifications is to define the project.     |
| rpose-2 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Review the construction plans and required            |
| # When to  | > certifications upon receipt.                          |
| Perform {# |                                                         |
| when-to-pe |                                                         |
| rform-3 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > The table below lists the plans and certifications    |
| ### How to | > that need to be requested from the contractor for     |
|  Obtain Co | > both proposed construction and remodeling cases.      |
| nstruction |                                                         |
|  Plans and |                                                         |
|  Required  |                                                         |
| Certificat |                                                         |
| ions {#how |                                                         |
| -to-obtain |                                                         |
| -construct |                                                         |
| ion-plans- |                                                         |
| and-requir |                                                         |
| ed-certifi |                                                         |
| cations .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

  ------------------------- ---------------- -----------------------------
  Plan/Certifications       Case Type        Reference

  *VA Form 26-1852*         Proposed and     See "VA Form 26-1852,
                            Remodeling       Description of Materials"
                                             later in this section.

  Plot and Foundation plans Proposed and     See "Plot and Foundation
                            Remodeling       Plans" later in this section.

  Floor levels/floor plans  Proposed and     See "Floor and Wall Plans"
                            Remodeling       later in this section.

  Wall detail               Proposed and     See "Floor and Wall Plans"
                            Remodeling       later in this section.

  Exterior/interior         Proposed and     See "Exterior and Interior
  elevations                Remodeling       Elevation Plans" later in
                                             this section.
  ------------------------- ---------------- -----------------------------

> ***IMPORTANT:*** See "Other Required SAH Exhibits and Certifications"
> in Chapter 9, Section F.

#### VA Form 26-1852, Description of Materials  {#va-form-26-1852-description-of-materials .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about *VA Form        |
| roduction  | > 26-1852* formats.                                     |
| {#introduc |                                                         |
| tion-17 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) agents use *VA Form   |
| Formats {# | > 26-1852* (*HUD Form 920005*) to document the          |
| formats .u | > description of materials. *VA Form 26-1852* must be   |
| nnumbered} | > fully completed and have the *original* signatures of |
|            | > the veteran and the contractor on the form filed in   |
|            | > the grant folder.                                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | > Other specification formats are acceptable, provided  |
|            | > that they are signed and dated by the contractor and  |
|            | > veteran as described above, and are specifically      |
|            | > detailed for Special Housing Adaptations (SHA)        |
|            | > appraisal, and compliance inspection purposes.        |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Plot and Foundation Plans {#plot-and-foundation-plans .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about the plot and    |
| roduction  | > foundation plans, including:                          |
| {#introduc |                                                         |
| tion-18 .u | -   plot plan requirements                              |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   sea level heights, and                              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   foundation plan requirements.                       |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > A plot plan should illustrate where the following     |
| Plot Plan  | > items will be located:                                |
| Requiremen |                                                         |
| ts {#plot- | -   the proposed house or addition                      |
| plan-requi |                                                         |
| rements .u | -   setbacks, and                                       |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   easements (building and utility).                   |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > It is preferable that the plot plan show the sea      |
| Sea Level  | > level heights of the finished grade at the:           |
| Heights {# |                                                         |
| sea-level- | -   foundation                                          |
| heights .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   top of the foundation, and                          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   four corners of the site.                           |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Fo   | > Foundation plans should include the dimensions and    |
| undation P | > materials used for:                                   |
| lan Requir |                                                         |
| ements {#f | -   footings                                            |
| oundation- |                                                         |
| plan-requi | -   walls                                               |
| rements .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   tie-in of existing walls and foundations to new     |
|            |     walls and foundations, and                          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   support piers.                                      |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Floor and Wall Plans {#floor-and-wall-plans .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about the floor and   |
| roduction  | > wall plans.                                           |
| {#introduc |                                                         |
| tion-19 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Fl   | > Floor plans must illustrate the design and layout.    |
| oor Plan R |                                                         |
| equirement |                                                         |
| s {#floor- |                                                         |
| plan-requi |                                                         |
| rements .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > Sectional wall detail must show all components from   |
| Wall Plan  | > the foundation footing upward to the roof ridge.      |
| Requiremen |                                                         |
| ts {#wall- |                                                         |
| plan-requi |                                                         |
| rements .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Exterior and Interior Elevation Plans {#exterior-and-interior-elevation-plans .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about exterior and    |
| roduction  | > interior elevation.                                   |
| {#introduc |                                                         |
| tion-20 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > For proposed construction, exterior elevations on all |
| # Exterior | > four sides of the house should be shown. For a room   |
|  Elevation | > addition, exterior elevations on the three new sides  |
|  Requireme | > of a room addition should be shown.                   |
| nts {#exte |                                                         |
| rior-eleva |                                                         |
| tion-requi |                                                         |
| rements .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Interior elevations must show the height of cabinets, |
| # Interior | > grab bars, fixtures, and other features necessary to  |
|  Elevation | > accommodate the veteran's disability.                 |
|  Requireme |                                                         |
| nts {#inte |                                                         |
| rior-eleva |                                                         |
| tion-requi |                                                         |
| rements .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

#### Handling Changes after Construction Plan Approval {#handling-changes-after-construction-plan-approval .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about handling        |
| roduction  | > changes after construction plan approval, including:  |
| {#introduc |                                                         |
| tion-21 .u | -   the purpose                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   when to perform                                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   requirements to authorize changes, and              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   how to handle changes after plan approval.          |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Pu   | > The purpose of this procedure is to ensure that the   |
| rpose {#pu | > changes are acceptable.                               |
| rpose-3 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Perform this procedure upon notification of changes   |
| # When to  | > to the construction plans and specifications.         |
| Perform {# |                                                         |
| when-to-pe |                                                         |
| rform-4 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Re   | > Changes can only be authorized:                       |
| quirements |                                                         |
|  to Author | -   upon receipt of:                                    |
| ize Change |                                                         |
| s {#requir | ```{=html}                                              |
| ements-to- | <!-- -->                                                |
| authorize- | ```                                                     |
| changes .u | -   *VA Form 26-1844, Request for Acceptance of Changes |
| nnumbered} |     in Approved\                                        |
|            |     Drawings and Specifications* specifically itemizing |
|            |     the changes, cost\                                  |
|            |     of changes, and signed by the veteran, contractor,  |
|            |     and lender (if\                                     |
|            |     applicable), or                                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   written notification specifically itemizing the     |
|            |     changes, costs of\                                  |
|            |     changes, and signed by the veteran, contractor, and |
|            |     lender (if\                                         |
|            |     applicable), and                                    |
|            |                                                         |
|            | ```{=html}                                              |
|            | <!-- -->                                                |
|            | ```                                                     |
|            | -   if no Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) are      |
|            |     changed.                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***Note***: Copies of the changes, whether        |
|            |     > approved or denied, must be retained in the grant |
|            |     > file.                                             |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Handling Changes after Construction Plan Approval, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > To handle changes after plan approval:                |
| # How to H |                                                         |
| andle Chan | -   accept or deny the changes by signing:              |
| ges after  |                                                         |
| Plan Appro | ```{=html}                                              |
| val {#how- | <!-- -->                                                |
| to-handle- | ```                                                     |
| changes-af | -   *VA Form 26-1844* indicating the decision, or       |
| ter-plan-a |                                                         |
| pproval .u | -   the change order request and indicating acceptance  |
| nnumbered} |     or denial, and                                      |
|            |                                                         |
|            | ```{=html}                                              |
|            | <!-- -->                                                |
|            | ```                                                     |
|            | -   notify the following individuals of the findings:   |
|            |                                                         |
|            | ```{=html}                                              |
|            | <!-- -->                                                |
|            | ```                                                     |
|            | -   contractor                                          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   veteran                                             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   lender (if applicable), and                         |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)-assigned        |
|            |     Compliance Inspector\                               |
|            |     (CI).                                               |
|            |                                                         |
|            | > ***IMPORTANT***: Any adjustment in value of 5 percent |
|            | > or more requires a staff field review. The Specially  |
|            | > Adapted Housing (SAH) agent can approve any           |
|            | > adjustment up to 5 percent, otherwise the Valuation   |
|            | > Officer, or designee, must countersign approval.      |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

## Section F Special Housing Adaptations (SHA) Inspection Schedules and Assignment of a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Compliance Inspector

#### Overview

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### In   | > This section contains information about the           |
| troduction | > inspection schedule and assignment of a Department of |
|            | > Veterans Affairs (VA) Compliance Inspector,           |
|            | > including:                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   general information about inspection schedules, and |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   assigning the VA Compliance Inspector.              |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > This section includes the following topics:           |
| # In this  |                                                         |
| Section {# |                                                         |
| in-this-se |                                                         |
| ction-5 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

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

  1          General Information About Inspection Schedules  10-F-2

  2          Assigning the Department of Veterans Affairs    10-F-4
             (VA) Compliance Inspector                       
  ---------- ----------------------------------------------- ------------

#### General Information About Inspection Schedules {#general-information-about-inspection-schedules .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about creating the    |
| roduction  | > inspection schedule, including:                       |
| {#introduc |                                                         |
| tion-23 .u | -   the purpose                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   when to perform                                     |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   a description of standard number of inspections,    |
|            |     and                                                 |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   how to determine the number of required             |
|            |     inspections.                                        |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Pu   | > The purpose of creating the inspection schedule is to |
| rpose {#pu | > notify the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)        |
| rpose-4 .u | > Compliance Inspector (CI) of the number of            |
| nnumbered} | > inspections required for a project.                   |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Create the inspection schedule before construction    |
| # When to  | > starts.                                               |
| Perform {# |                                                         |
| when-to-pe |                                                         |
| rform-5 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### De   | > The minimum number of inspections for proposed        |
| scription  | > construction, including room additions, is three. The |
| of the Min | > three inspections are:                                |
| imum Numbe |                                                         |
| r of Inspe | -   first inspection where the foundations walls are    |
| ctions {#d |     complete and ready for\                             |
| escription |     backfill                                            |
| -of-the-mi |                                                         |
| nimum-numb | -   second inspection when the building is enclosed,    |
| er-of-insp |     including rough-ins\                                |
| ections .u |     (electrical, heating, and plumbing)                 |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
|            | -   third inspection when the building and landscape is |
|            |     complete.                                           |
|            |                                                         |
|            |     > ***Note***: The number of inspections may         |
|            |     > increase depending on the project. If more than   |
|            |     > five inspections are planned, consult Central     |
|            |     > Office (CO).                                      |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

General Information About Inspection Schedules, Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Use the table below to determine the number of        |
| # How to D | > required VA compliance inspections.                   |
| etermine t |                                                         |
| he Number  |                                                         |
| of Require |                                                         |
| d Inspecti |                                                         |
| ons {#how- |                                                         |
| to-determi |                                                         |
| ne-the-num |                                                         |
| ber-of-req |                                                         |
| uired-insp |                                                         |
| ections .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

  ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------
  If the case involves ...            Then the number of required VA
                                      compliance inspections is ...

  proposed construction               a minimum of 3.

  remodeling job that includes an     a minimum of 3.
  addition                            

  remodeling job that does *not*      3 or less depending on the
  include an addition                 complexity of the project.
  ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------

#### Assigning the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Compliance Inspector {#assigning-the-department-of-veterans-affairs-va-compliance-inspector .unnumbered}

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Int  | > This topic contains information about assigning the   |
| roduction  | > Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Compliance        |
| {#introduc | > Inspector (CI), including:                            |
| tion-24 .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   the selection of the VA CI                          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   the *SAH/TAS Letter #16* (*FL 26-638*)*, Inspector  |
|            |     Assignment Letter*                                  |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   documents sent with the *SAH/TAS Letter #16* *(FL   |
|            |     26-638)*                                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   when the assigned VA CI is unavailable              |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   areas without a VA CI, and                          |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   payment vouchers.                                   |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > Select the VA CI from Specially Adapted Housing       |
| ### Select | > (SAH)/The Appraisal System (TAS).                     |
| ion of the |                                                         |
|  VA Compli |                                                         |
| ance Inspe |                                                         |
| ctor {#sel |                                                         |
| ection-of- |                                                         |
| the-va-com |                                                         |
| pliance-in |                                                         |
| spector .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} |                                                         |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ###        | > The *SAH/TAS Letter #16* (*FL 26-638*)*, Inspector    |
| ## The SAH | > Assignment Letter)*:                                  |
| /TAS Lette |                                                         |
| r #16 (FL  | -   is used to assign the VA CI, and                    |
| 26-638), I |                                                         |
| nspector A | -   includes important information, such as the:        |
| ssignment  |                                                         |
| Letter {#t | ```{=html}                                              |
| he-sahtas- | <!-- -->                                                |
| letter-16- | ```                                                     |
| fl-26-638- | -   amount to be paid for the inspections               |
| inspector- |                                                         |
| assignment | -   number of inspections                               |
| -letter .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   location of the property                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   name of the veteran, and                            |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   voucher with an obligation number.                  |
|            |                                                         |
|            | > ***Note***: The obligation number is assigned in      |
|            | > accordance with Regional Loan Center (RLC)            |
|            | > procedures.                                           |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| #####      | > The following documents are sent with *SAH/TAS Letter |
| Documents  | > #16* (*FL 26-638*) as applicable:                     |
| Sent With  |                                                         |
| SAH/TAS Le | -   the contract                                        |
| tter #16 ( |                                                         |
| FL 26-638) | -   the approved plans, and                             |
|            |                                                         |
|            | -   the specifications.                                 |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

Continued on next page

Assigning the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Compliance Inspector,
Continued

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##         | > If a VA CI has been assigned, but is unavailable at   |
| ### When t | > the time of request for the inspection, the following |
| he Assigne | > individuals may conduct the inspection:               |
| d VA Appro |                                                         |
| ved Compli | -   another VA CI                                       |
| ance Inspe |                                                         |
| ctor Is Un | -   the SAH agent, or                                   |
| available  |                                                         |
| {#when-the | -   other qualified VA personnel.                       |
| -assigned- |                                                         |
| va-approve |     ***IMPORTANT:*** Compliance inspections must be     |
| d-complian |     performed by a designated fee compliance inspector. |
| ce-inspect |     Compliance inspections may be made by qualified     |
| or-is-unav |     salaried personnel only when designated fee         |
| ailable .u |     compliance inspectors are not immediately           |
| nnumbered} |     available. The LGO must approve each case where the |
|            |     SAH agent, or other qualified salaried personnel,   |
|            |     is assigned to perform compliance inspections. The  |
|            |     LGO must also notify, via e-mail, the Chief of      |
|            |     Specially Adapted Housing, Central Office, for each |
|            |     such action.                                        |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ##### Ar   | > In areas without VA CIs, any qualified, salaried      |
| eas Withou | > personnel may perform compliance inspections.         |
| t VA Compl |                                                         |
| iance Insp | > ***Requirements***:                                   |
| ectors {#a |                                                         |
| reas-witho | -   The Loan Guaranty Officer (LGO) must approve the    |
| ut-va-comp |     use of a contracted\                                |
| liance-ins |     inspector for a project.                            |
| pectors .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   The SAH agent must document the grant file or       |
|            |     obtain evidence\                                    |
|            |     documenting the need for assignment of the          |
|            |     inspector on the project.                           |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+

+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| ####       | > Upon receipt of a completed voucher from the CI, the  |
| # Payment  | > voucher is:                                           |
| Vouchers { |                                                         |
| #payment-v | -   certified by a LGO-designated individual, and       |
| ouchers .u |                                                         |
| nnumbered} | -   processed for payment through finance activity.     |
+------------+---------------------------------------------------------+