24 CFR Part 8 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Federally Assisted Programs and Activities - Notice: Instructions for use of alternative accessibility standard

Washing Machines; Clothes Dryers— Sections 214.2 and 214.3 of the 2010 Standards

UFAS requires front loading washing machines and clothes dryers in common use laundry rooms in facilities serving accessible residential dwelling units.²⁰ UFAS’ requirements for front-loading machines reflect the fact that not all persons with disabilities will be able to use top loading machines. The 2010 Standards, however, permit either top loading or front loading machines in such facilities (Section 214.2 Washing Machines; Section 214.3 Clothes Dryers). Consequently, HUD is not permitting application of the scoping requirements for washing and drying machines found at sections 214.2 and 214.3 of the 2010 Standards. Recipients must continue to comply with section 4.34.7 of UFAS. These requirements apply to each laundry room except that HUD’s Section 504 regulation and UFAS would not require a laundry room on an upper story of a non-elevator building to be accessible provided that there is an accessible laundry room serving that same building on the ground floor. HUD recipients should also be aware that, when washing machines and clothes dryers are provided in individual dwelling units, front loading accessible washing machines and clothes dryers may be required in accessible dwelling units as a reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities.