Are washers and dryers provided in individual units subject to the Guidelines?
No. The Guidelines do not require washers and dryers in individual covered multifamily dwelling units to be accessible. However, if such laundry equipment is located in a separate utility room where users enter the room to access the machines, there must be an accessible route into the room, the door must provide a nominal 32-inch clear opening, and switches and outlets, except those outlets that are for the machines, must be accessible. Front loading washers and dryers are recommended, as are parallel 30- by 48-inch clear floor spaces positioned in front of the machines. Fair Housing Act Design Manual 7.19. Where laundry equipment is located in a common use area, it must conform to the requirements for accessible public and common use facilities. Fair Housing Act Design Manual, page 2.26, and see ANSI 4.32.6 (1986).
