24 CFR Part 100—Fair Housing Accessibility Guidelines

Requirement 5. Light switches, electrical outlets, thermostats and other environmental controls in accessible locations.

Section 100.205(c)(3)(ii) requires that all covered multifamily dwellings with a building entrance on an accessible route shall be designed and constructed in such a manner that all premises within covered multifamily dwelling units contain light switches, electrical outlets, thermostats, and other environmental controls in accessible locations.

Guideline

Light switches, electrical outlets, thermostats and other environmental controls would meet section 100.205(c)(3)(ii) if operable parts of the controls are located no higher than 48 inches, and no lower than 15 inches, above the floor. If the reach is over an obstruction (for example, an overhanging shelf) between 20 and 25 inches in depth, the maximum height is reduced to 44 inches for forward approach; or 46 inches for side approach, provided the obstruction (for example, a kitchen base cabinet) is no more than 24 inches in depth. Obstructions should not extend more than 25 inches from the wall beneath a control. (See Fig.2.)

Note

Controls or outlets that do not satisfy these specifications are acceptable provided that comparable controls or outlets (i.e., that perform the same functions) are provided within the same area and are accessible, in accordance with this guideline for Requirement 5.

(a) Forward Reach Limit

NOTE: Clear knee space should be as deep as the reach distance.

(b) Maximum Forward Reach Over an Obstruction

(c) Maximum Side Reach Over Obstruction

Fig. 2 Reach Ranges

Source: 24 CFR Part 100—Fair Housing Accessibility Guidelines by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Office of the Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity - published 03/06/1991

Related Keywords

• Dwelling Unit (FHA)
• Electrical Receptacle
• Electrical Switch
• Elevator Building
• Obstructed Reach
• Operable Part (Control)
• Reach Range
• Thermostat
• Unobstructed Reach

Related Section Numbers

• 24 CFR Part 100—Discriminatory Conduct Under the Fair Housing Act (with amendments issued through Sept. 2016), (1)
  • §100.205(c)(3)(ii)
  • Guidelines for Requirement 5
  • Requirement 5 -- Environmental Controls
  • 22.1 Q. Must the switches on range hood kitchen ventilation fans be in accessible locations?
  • 25.1 Q. It appears from Figure 2(c) of the Guidelines (under Requirement 5) that there is a 34 inch height requirement for kitchen counters and vanities. Is this true?
  • 28.1 Q. If an architect or builder chooses to follow the bathroom specifications in Requirement 7. are the other bathrooms in the dwelling unit required to have reinforced walls for grab bars?
  • Requirement 5
  • Chapter Five: Requirement 5, Light Switches, Electrical Outlets, Thermostats, and Other Environmental Controls in Accessible Locations
  • All Covered Switches, Outlets, and Controls Operated on a Frequent Basis Must be in Accessible Locations
  • Controls and Outlets Subject to the Requirements of the Guidelines
  • Mounting Locations for Outlets
  • Light switches, electrical outlets, thermostats, and other environmental controls in accessible locations