Delaware Fair Housing Act Design Manual

Adoption Info of Delaware Fair Housing Act Design Manual

Official title Delaware Fair Housing Act Design Manual

Effective dates January 1, 2015 – Present

Published by Delaware State Housing Authority

Overview The Delaware Fair Housing Act Design Manual provides comprehensive guidelines to ensure that multi-family housing developments comply with the accessibility requirements of the Fair Housing Act (FHA). This manual is intended to guide architects, builders, developers, and code officials in designing and constructing housing that is accessible to individuals with disabilities, promoting equal housing opportunities in Delaware.
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Key components of the Delaware Fair Housing Act Design Manual include:

  • Accessible Routes: Requirements for providing accessible routes throughout housing developments, including specifications for walkways, ramps, and doorways.
  • Accessible Entrances: Guidelines for ensuring that building entrances are accessible, including considerations for thresholds, door hardware, and ramps.
  • Public and Common Areas: Standards for making public and common areas in multi-family housing accessible, such as lobbies, laundry rooms, and recreational facilities.
  • Interior Design of Units: Requirements for accessible features within individual dwelling units, including kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas.
  • Usable Kitchens and Bathrooms: Guidelines for designing kitchens and bathrooms that are usable by individuals with disabilities, including specifications for sinks, counters, appliances, and fixtures.
  • Compliance and Enforcement: Information on the procedures for ensuring compliance with the FHA’s accessibility requirements, including inspection, certification, and enforcement actions.

The manual aligns with federal Fair Housing Act guidelines and incorporates Delaware-specific amendments to address local needs and regulatory conditions. It is an essential resource for those involved in the planning, design, and construction of multi-family housing projects in Delaware.