Universal Design plays an important role in Fair Housing because it centers on use by everyone, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design.

Points are awarded to applicants of developments in which the development’s architect certifies in the Architect’s Certification that the development’s design will meet VHDA’s Universal Design standards. The development will be partly certified, prior to the issuance of IRS Forms 8609. If units in the development meet VHDA’s Universal Design standards, the architect of record must complete the section of the Architect’s Certificate entitled Universal Design Standards Certification.

Please refer to the Tax Credit Manual for details on how to obtain points for Universal Design.