HUD HCV Guidebook § 3.2

Housing quality standards found in 24 CFR 982.401 for the HCV program apply to congregate housing,
with the following standards below applying in place of HQS standards for food preparation and refuse
disposal. Additionally, the 24 CFR 982.401(d)(2)(i) HQS requirement that each dwelling unit have a
kitchen does not apply to congregate housing.

Food Preparation and Refuse Disposal
Congregate housing requires:17
   • A refrigerator of appropriate size in the private living area of each resident;
   • Central kitchen and dining facilities located within the premises and accessible to the residents.

13 24 CFR § 982.604(b)
14 24 CFR § 982.609(b)((2)(iii)
15 24 CFR § 982.606(b)(2)
16 24 CFR § 982.316
17 24 CFR § 982.609(b)

These facilities must contain suitable space and equipment to store, prepare, and serve food in
       a sanitary manner; must be used to provide a food service that is provided for the residents,
       and that is not provided by the residents; and must be for the primary use of residents on the
       congregate units and be sufficient in size to accommodate the residents;
   •   The congregate housing must contain adequate facilities and services for the sanitary disposal
       of food waste and refuse, including facilities for temporary storage where necessary.

The housing quality standards applicable to lead-based paint do not apply, unless a child under the age
of 6 is expected to reside in the unit.