The U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) have issued new guidelines to assist design professionals, builders and developers in meeting their obligations regarding persons with disabilities when building multifamily housing. The regulations relate to width of doorways and sufficient space in the rooms for maneuverability of wheelchairs, as well as height of outlets, light switches and thermostats. Bathroom walls have to be reinforced to allow for future installation of grab bars, all for compliance with the Fair Housing Act. The Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI) tells MHProNews, according to HUD, 30 million Americans use a wheelchair or have trouble walking or climbing stairs.

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