Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Adaptive housing services are among the most complex and costly vocational rehabilitation services provided by the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC). They require a significant investment of agency resources for necessary modifications, as well as important decision-making by the consumer throughout the process. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

1) What kind of services does the MRC Adaptive Housing Program provide?
2) How do I apply for adaptive housing services?
3) How do I qualify for adaptive housing services?
4) Who coordinates the adaptive housing services?
5) Can a rental apartment be modified?
6) Can my condo be modified?
7) Can a new home or a home under construction be modified?
8) Does the modification require architectural drawings?
9) Who pays for the architectural drawings?
10) How does the contractor get chosen?
11) What is the bid process?
12) Can I have my own contractor do the work?
13) How long does it take to do a home modification?
14) What if I want to upgrade the materials used in the modifications to my home?
15) Do you project the type of potential modification for a declining health conditions when the home modifications are being done?
16) Who is responsible for the care, upkeep and repairs of the modifications?
17) Who is responsible for the cost of lift inspections?
18) Can lift inspections be waived in a private home?
19) What if I move, can I have home modification services provided at my new home?
20) What is the maximum cost limit for a home modification?
21) Who decides what modifications get funded?
22) What about temporary ramps?

1) What services does the MRC Adaptive Housing Program provide?

The Adaptive Housing Program offers home evaluations, architectural services, housing modifications, and equipment installation for individuals with disabilities. These services help eliminate barriers within their current home environment, supporting their employment goals.

Adaptive housing services fall into two categories:

• Major home modifications – wheelchair ramps, lifts, stairlifts, bathroom modifications (roll-in showers, roll-under sinks, raised toilets, widened doorways), and kitchen adjustments (lowered counters, roll-under cooktops).
• Minor home modifications – door openers, grab bars, handrails, and widened doorways.

2) How do I apply for adaptive housing services?

If your Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Counselor determines that adaptive housing services could benefit you, they will complete an “Adaptive Housing Program Referral” form. This form is sent to the Adaptive Housing Coordinator in the Rehabilitation Technology Department, who will oversee the modifications. During the site visit, you will also need to sign the “Adaptive Housing Authorization” form.

3) How do I qualify for adaptive housing services?

Your eligibility is determined solely by your VR Counselor based on MRC policies, your progress in the rehabilitation process, vocational goals, and financial eligibility.

4) Who coordinates adaptive housing services?

The Adaptive Housing Coordinator in the Rehabilitation Technology Department manages these services. You can reach them at (617) 204-3721 or by email at Eugene.Blumkin@MRC.state.ma.us

5) Can a rental apartment be modified?

Yes, modifications can be made with written approval from the property owner. However, landlords of buildings with more than 10 units, as covered under MGL Chapter 151B Section 4 Paragraph 7A, are required to provide modifications unless it causes an undue hardship.

6) Can my condo be modified?

Yes, but modifications to common areas, such as wheelchair ramps or lifts, may require approval from the condo association. Interior modifications typically do not require approval, but it is best to verify with your condo board.

7) Can a new home or a home under construction be modified?

No. A newly constructed home cannot be modified under this program if it was completed after the onset of the disability.

8) Are architectural drawings required for modifications?

Yes, all major modifications, except stairlifts, require architectural drawings to ensure compliance with building codes and regulations.

9) Who covers the cost of architectural drawings?

The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission covers the cost as part of the overall home modification project.

10) How is the contractor selected?

Contractors are chosen through a competitive bid process. The contract is awarded to the lowest reasonable bidder, and you will receive an Award Notification Letter once the selection is made.

11) What is the bid process?

The MRC follows a state-required bidding process to ensure modifications are completed by licensed contractors at the lowest reasonable cost. Consumers receive copies of the bid request and a list of contractors it was sent to. Before submitting a bid, contractors must visit the home.

12) Can I hire my own contractor?

Yes, but the contractor must participate in the same bidding process. If they submit the lowest bid, they will be awarded the project and added to the state contract. If not, the job will go to another bidder.

13) How long does a home modification take?

The MRC aims to complete modifications within 3 to 6 months, but unforeseen delays may occur. You can request updates on the progress at any time.

14) Can I upgrade materials at my own expense?

Yes, but you must cover the additional costs.

15) Does the program consider future health decline when making modifications?

Yes, the team takes into account potential changes in health. The counselor, housing coordinator, and architect work together to ensure modifications remain functional long-term.

16) Who is responsible for maintenance and repairs?

The client is responsible for maintaining the modifications. The contractor provides a one-year warranty for repairs. After the warranty expires, upkeep becomes the client’s responsibility.

17) Who covers the cost of lift inspections?

The client is responsible for lift inspection fees.

18) Can lift inspections be waived in private homes?

No. State law requires private residence lifts to be inspected every five years. The standard fee is $400, but it can be reduced to $100 if the lift is medically necessary or the full fee presents a financial hardship. You can apply for a reduction at Mass.gov/DPS.

19) Can modifications be transferred if I move?

Under exceptional circumstances, modifications may be approved for a new residence. Each case is reviewed individually.

20) What is the maximum funding limit for home modifications?

The standard limit is $15,000, but a waiver can be requested for higher costs. Waivers are considered on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the type of work needed, client needs, and vocational goals.

21) Who decides which modifications get funded?

The Principal Engineer and the Director of Independent Living review requests and make funding decisions based on MRC regulations.

22) Are temporary ramps available?

Yes, MRC covers the cost of temporary ramps until a permanent ramp is installed. However, permanent use of a temporary ramp is not funded by the program.