What is a Reasonable Accommodation?
A reasonable accommodation is a change, exception, or adjustment to a rule, policy, practice, procedure, service, or program that may be necessary to provide an equal opportunity to use and enjoy housing or participate in a housing program. WCHA policy

What Is Not a Reasonable Accommodation

Not every request qualifies. The Housing Authority may deny requests that:
1. Are not related to a disability.
2. Lack a disability-related need (nexus).
3. Would impose an undue financial or administrative burden.
4. Would fundamentally alter the nature of the HCV program.
5. Are prohibited by HUD regulations.

For example:
"I want a larger house because I have visitors."
"I prefer a nicer neighborhood."
"I don't like stairs."
"My disability requires a ground-floor unit."
"My disability requires an additional bedroom for dialysis equipment."
"My disability requires a live-in aide."

What are the types of Reasonable Accommodation requests:

Reasonable Accommodation

Examples

Voucher Size

Additional bedroom for medical equipment, overnight caregiver, disability-related sleeping arrangement, therapy room (only if medically necessary).

Extension of Voucher Term

Additional time to locate suitable housing due to disability-related barriers.

Exception Payment Standard

Request for a higher payment standard because disability-related housing needs cannot be met within the standard payment limit.

Live-in Aide

Approval of a live-in aide who is not otherwise part of the assisted household.

Lease from a Relative

Approval to lease from a parent, child, sibling, or other relative when necessary as a reasonable accommodation.

Alternative Recertification Methods

Telephone interviews, virtual appointments, assistance completing paperwork.

Medical Equipment

Approval of modifications necessary for medical equipment affecting unit suitability or bedroom size.

Portability Requests

Disability-related portability accommodations when medically necessary.

Extension of Deadlines

Additional time to provide documents, attend appointments, or comply with program requirements because of a disability.

Policy Exceptions

Exceptions to PHA policies when necessary because of a disability and they do not fundamentally alter the program or create an undue financial or administrative burden.

Third Party Verification

To be completed by a qualified medical, rehabilitation, or other non-medical service agency professional who is competent to render an opinion because of knowledge about the individual's situation and disability-related need. This cannot be completed by the applicant, resident, participant or household member.