4-29 Verifying the Need for Accessible Units

When an applicant requests an accessible unit or a unit preference, such as a first floor unit, the owner may conduct inquiries to:

• A. Verify that the applicant is qualified for the unit, which is only available to persons with a disability or to persons with a particular type of disability. For example, an applicant with a physical disability who uses a wheelchair may not be eligible for a unit that is specifically designed and intended for a person with a visual disability.

• B. Verify that the applicant needs the features of the unit as an accommodation to his or her disability. For example, an individual with a psychiatric disability (assuming no physical disability) requests a unit with features designed to be accessible for individuals with mobility disabilities. In this situation, there is no relation between the individual’s psychiatric disability and the need for an accessible unit. Although an alternate accommodation may be required to accommodate the applicant’s psychiatric disability, the applicant would not be entitled to the accessible unit requested.

HUD Occupancy Handbook Chapter 4: Waiting List and Tenant Selection

6/07

4-62

Section 4: Selecting Tenants from the Waiting List

4350.3 REV-1

NOTE: Owners may not request information about an applicant’s type of disability but may identify an applicant’s need for the features of accessible units or for a reasonable accommodation.

• C. Verify that the applicant is qualified to receive a priority on the waiting list available to persons with a disability or to persons with a particular type of disability. If the owner gives a priority to a class of persons, and an applicant indicates that he or she is qualified for the priority placement on the waiting list, the owner may screen to verify that the applicant qualifies for the priority placement.