VIRGIN ISLANDS HOUSING FINANCE AUTHORITY 
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES 
A. CRITERIA AND PROCEDURES FOR PROPOSAL REVIEW AND APPROVAL 
These Guidelines are the result of an examination of present housing development policies or 
the Virgin Islands Finance Authority ("Authority") and the finding that there exists a need to 
create a standardized administrative process through which the production of affordable housing 
can be initiated, developed and made available to the program. 
The guidelines that follow set out the basic procedures through which the preceding objectives 
are to be achieved. Additionally, they are intended to supplement an application and review 
process and system for construction management and final project approval. 
All proposals submitted by Developers and Contractors to the Virgin Islands Housing Finance 
Authority, whether or not they were initiated by the Developer or solicited by the Authority 
must meet the criteria set out in these Guidelines. However, it is recognized that some areas of 
the guidelines may have to be tailored to specific projects, and revisions will be made from time 
to time by the Authority. Areas to which the guidelines apply include: 
I) 
Projects initiated by Developers who seek endorsement of their construction projects for 
the Affordable Housing Program as a means to receive Affordable Housing Tax benefits. 
2) 
Projects using construction of end loan financing from the VII-IF A, and marketing 
assistance. 
3) 
Projects using VIHFA's technical assistance in particular areas, such as pre-qualifying 
and serving loans for housing applicants and providing access to the applicant master 
list. 
4) 
Developers responding to VIHF A's solicitation for development proposals. 
Th~ Executive Director is authorized with respect to any development to waive or modify any 
procedure or provision herein, where deemed appropriate for good cause, as long as the 
modifications are consistent with the Low and Moderate Income Affordable Housing Act of 
1990, the Authority's Rules and Regulations, and Agreements under applicable bond issues. 
SOLICITATION OF PROPOSALS 
The Executive Director may from time-to-time take such actions as may deemed necessary 
and proper in order to solicit proposals for the construction of housing. Such actions may 
included advertising in newspapers and other media, mailing of infonnation or any other 
method of public announcement which the Executive Director may select as appropriate 
under the circumstances. The Executive Director may impose requirements, limitations and 
conditions with respect to the selection of preliminary and final proposals as are considered 
necessary or appropriate. The Executive Director may cause studies and other research and 
analyses to be performed in order to determine the manner and conditions under which 
available funds and assets of the Authority are to be allocated and such other matters as are 
deemed appropriate relating to the selection of proposals. The Authority may also consider, 
subject to the approval of the Board, unsolicited proposals for financing and development. 
THE PROPOSAL 
The Virgin Island Housing Finance Authority may, from time-to-time, issue notices of 
solicitation for proposals to perform various construction and related tasks under the 
Affordable Housing Program. In response to such notice, these Guidelines as well as any 
specific information necessary to the project will be provided by the Authority. 
When proposals for development are solicited, review will be in two stages. The initial step 
will be a review of Qualification Statement submitted by all interested developers. Selected 
qualified Developers will be requested to submit proposals for specific projects. 
Developer's Qualifications 
In order to participate in any program of the Authority which has as its objectives the creation 
of lots or the construction of a housing development, a Developer must: 
l) 
Be duly organized, validly existing, qualified and licensed to do business under the 
laws of the Virgin Islands and shall be in good standing in the Virgin Islands and shalJ 
have the power and authority, corporate or otherwise, to own properties and carry on 
business as is now being conducted. 
2) 
Demonstrate specific, measurable housing construction experience, expertise, and 
adequate staff capacity to undertake the proposed development. A developer without 
sufficient experience, expertise, or staff is encouraged to strengthen his or her record 
by entering into a joint effort with a developer or development consultant who has an 
established record of success, the required resources and who assumes an active role 
in such a joint effort. 
2 
3) 
Be capable of proceeding promptly to construct and complete the housing 
development or project. 
4) 
Demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Authority, the availability of sufficient financial 
resources to obtain adequate construction financing to complete the construction of 
the proposed development or project. 
s) 
Have an acceptable history of meeting all applicable requirements of and obligations 
to the Authority and other lenders. 
6) 
Have a commitment to construct and market the proposed development in accordance 
with all applicable federal and local "Equal Opportunity", "Employment of Project 
Area Residents and Contractors" and "Affinnative Fair Marketing" Guidelines. 
7) 
Agree to secure and maintain insurance during construction of the project with the 
Authority being named as an additional insured. Coverage shalt include Worker's 
Compensation Insurance, Public Liability and Property Damage Insurance, Motor 
Vehicle Liability Insurance and Professional Liability Policy. The amounts for each 
are as specified in the Authority's Rules and Regulations and/or are found as a part of 
the Authorities "Project Specification". The insurance company or companies issuing 
the foregoing policies must be licensed to do business in the Virgin Islands. 
8) 
Agree to hold the Authority's officers, agents and employees, harmless from any and 
all claims made against the Developer's officers, agents and employees which arise 
out of any action or omission of the developer or any of its contractors, officers, 
employees or agents. 
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DEVELOPER'S SUBMITTALS FOR QUALIFICATION REVIEW {FIRST STAGE} 
a)
Complete Qualification Statement
b)
A copy of the Developer's business license and other evidence of the finns ability to
perfonn legally as a developer in the Virgin islands ( certificate of good standing, copy
of most recent Annual Report To V.I. Government).
c)
A portfolio of both construction work in progress and work completed.
d)
Experience of development team.
e)
Financial Statement.
DEVELOPER'S SUBMITTAL OF PROPOSAL (SECOND ST AGE} 
a)
Small-scale site location map, indicating shopping centers, schools, recreation,
transportation and other services.
b)
Site plan showing buildings, roads, parking, recreation, utilities, etc.
c)
Typical dwelling unit plans, showing a proposed furniture layout.
d)
Typical dwelling unit elevations.
e)
Typical building elevation, if the development consists of multifamily units.
f)
Representative cross section of site, showing location of building and elevations,
depicted at a minimum of 5ft elevations, 2 ft is preferred.
g)
Projected construction schedule, displaying milestone stages of construction as well as
details of trade work durations.
h)
Statement that project will comply with all applicable codes, laws, rules and
regulations.
i)
A statement that the project wil1 meet or exceed the requirements of the solicitation
for proposal, these guidelines, the attached specifications and design requirements.
j)
Schedule of sales price(s) for units to be constructed.
4 
k) 
A cost estimate of the probable construction cost utilizing the CSI/AIA Master 
Specification format for defining major cost divisions. 
1) 
Indication of financial interest from a lending institution. 
REQUIREMENTS FOR CONSTRUCTION LOAN CLOSING <THIRD STAGE), 
if applicable 
a) 
Executed Affordable Housing Development Agreement. 
b) 
3 sets of approved architectural plans specifications and Affordable Housing 
Development Plan to VIlIF NHPR/DPNR/Legislature. 
c) 
Building, Electrical and Plumbing pennit (DPNR). 
d) 
Earth change / CZM permits (DPNR). 
e) 
Driveway permits (DPW). 
f) 
HUD Environmental Approval 
g) 
Fire-safety permit (FSD) 
h) 
Construction Schedule. 
i) 
HUD Master Conditional Commitment. 
j) 
Evidence of land ownership (Deed from VIHFA to Developer). 
k) 
Builders risk and liability insurance/ payment and performance bonds. 
1) 
Evidence of properly established escrow account for purchaser deposits. 
m) 
Pre- sales Contract(s). 
n) 
Declaration of Covenants and Restrictions by VHF A on land to ensure compliance . 
o) 
Affordable Housing Tax Benefits 
EVALUATION PROCESS 
Criteria for evaluation and selection of proposals 
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The Authority may choose to negotiate and contract with any qualified developer or 
contractor whose proposal shall be deemed by the Authority to best fulfill the intent of the 
Affordable Housing Program. To this end, the Authority shall approve a proposal on the 
basis of the following criteria: 
I) 
Design innovations that are likely to reduce cost of housing construction. 
2) 
The Architect, management agent, engineer, marketing representative, and other 
members of the proposed development team having the qualifications necessary to 
perform their respective functions and responsibilities. 
3) 
The developer and/or contractor having the experience, ability and financial capacity 
necessary to carry out their respective responsibilities. 
4) 
Dwelling units priced at a level which best meets the goals of the Affordable Housing 
Program. 
5) 
The best utilization of site in terms of density, aesthetics, safety, physical use, 
minimization of erosion, minimization of infrastructure costs and other factors. 
6) 
Developments that do not look like low income "projects", are not overpowering, are 
of comfortable human scale and are easily identifiable with the local character. 
7) 
The degree to which the project will involve local Virgin Islands residents in the 
development and construction team. 
8) 
The proposed development will be economically feasible and financially achievable. 
9) 
The housing development is consistent with the current housing objectives of the 
Affordable Housing Act. 
IO) 
That the proposed development has or will have sufficient access to supporting social 
services, including recreational facilities for youth, transportation, schools, 
employment, retail shopping, and all necessary utilities and infrastructure 
improvements. 
6 
11) 
That the location of the proposed development is consistent with the Government's 
policy of dispersing housing throughout communities and avoiding undue concentrations of 
person and families of low income and rental housing, except where overriding 
considerations of economic need necessitate modifying these requirements in order to 
accomplish the housing objective of the Government. 
12) 
That the proposed housing development will provide safe, sanitary and decent 
housing, meeting the requirements of all applicable building, zoning and 
environmental standards. 
13) 
That the Developer's proposed sales prices are maximum prices, the upper limit for 
negotiation and shall not be subject to increase. (Where a Development agreement is 
not entered into within 120 days from the acceptance date of the proposal , the 
Developer's price may be adjusted if requested by the Developer and the U.S. 
Department of Commerce Composite Construction Cost Index or other generally 
acceptable index for cost changes show an increase in cost during the interim period . 
the Developer will not be entitled to any such increase if the results of the Developer's 
failure to provide all materials required for the execution of the Agreement). 
14) 
That the Developer has a plan of finance and indication of financing interest from a 
lending institution. 
B. DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS REVIEW 
The Authority will carry out the design and construction review for all development projects 
built for the Affordable Housing program. A process for project development has been 
established whereby all construction proposals are reviewed in stages from schematic design 
to the finalization of construction documents. The Authority will provide guidance 
throughout the process to ensure the program's goals and functional and technical 
requirements are met consistent with the original plan submitted by the developer and 
approved by resolution by the Board of Directors of the Authority. 
This process will ensure prompt resolution of the sometimes contradictory needs of program, 
design and site. The process must ensure that the approved projects meet the specific needs 
of the Affordable Housing Program. 
The project must confonn to all applicable codes of the Virgin Islands and the Federal 
Government .These will include, but not be limited, to general construction, environmental 
concerns, historic preservation, land use and zoning. 
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Each single family home must a certain minimum square footage of space and amenities for 
proper functioning of a home while the overall design is to be reviewed to minimize 
detrimental social or physical impact on the surrounding community. The quality of materials 
provided will be reviewed to insure that no excessive maintenance costs will be borne by the 
home - buyer and life cycle cost is lowered. The quality of any common facilities that may be 
provided such as roads, utility lines, sewage treatment plants, tot lots and other recreation 
facilities, and other amenities should meet industry standards to ensure long-term use. 
General Guidelines for Applicable Codes and Regulations 
All Developers involved with projects under the Affordable Housing Program must become 
conversant with the applicable areas of the following codes: 
2) 
3) 
4) 
5) 
6) 
7) 
8) 
9) 
The Virgin Islands Building and Zoning Codes. 
The Virgin Islands Coastal Zone Management Handbook for Home - builders and 
Developers. 
The Virgin Islands Environmental Protection Law. 
Drainage and Flood Plain Management Technical Procedures for the VJ. 
Regulatory Handbook for Flood Damage Mitigation in the Virgin Islands. 
Virgin Islands Occupational Safety and Health Act. 
"2003 International Building Code and any subsequent amendments thereto" as set 
forth in Act #6697 - Bill #25-0216, by the 25th Legislature of the Virgin Islands. 
Applicable Federal Regulations and lflJD requirements. (See HUD Handbook 4 I 45.5, 
Architectural processing and inspections for Home Mortgage Insurance). 
Local and Federal Equal Opportunity Requirements. 
Specific Requirements for local approval process 
l) 
Subdivision Permits (DPNR) 
2) 
Earth Change/ CZM Pennit (DPNR) 
8 
3) 
Building Permit (DPNR) 
4) 
Electrical Permit (DPNR) 
S) 
Plumbing Permit (DPNR) 
6) 
Driveway Permit (DPW) 
7) 
Sanitary Permit (if public sewer is used) (DPW) 
8) 
Certificate of Occupancy (DPNR) 
9) 
Application to W AP A for construction meter and for final electrical hook-up (W AP A) 
10) 
Cultural Resource Survey (DPNR) 
11) 
Affordable Housing Tax Benefits (VIHFA) 
Specific Requirements for HUD Approval 
1) 
HUD Environmental Review (see review checklist) 
2) 
HUD Architectural and Engineering Review 
3) 
Application for Project Appraisal and MCC 
4) 
HUD assignment of Fee Inspector 
5) 
HUD Compliance Inspection 
6) 
As - built surveys 
Specific Requirements for Closing Completed Units 
I) 
Final Subdivision Permit/Registered subdivision plot plan, and certified As-Built 
Drawings 
2) 
As-built plot surveys 
3) 
Water test for cisterns 
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4) 
Water Supply and Disposal inspection Report 
5) 
HUD compliance inspection reports 
6) 
Certificate of Occupancy 
7) 
Termite inspections certificate 
8) 
Community association documents filed of record 
9) 
Additional requirements per VIHF A checklist 
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT REVIEW 
The Architectural Plan and Specification Development will be the responsibility of the 
Developer who shall be guided by the Project requirements provided by the Authority. In 
developing the Project from design schematics to construction documents, the AIA 
Architectural Plan Developments process as outlined in the Architect owner Agreement 
Documents # AJA B 151 shall be employed. The successful adherence to this guideline and 
review process is an essential part of ensuring an acceptable set of Design and Construction 
documents. 
Please note that if no specifications manual is provided by the Developer, then the plan 
sheets themselves must cany more detail to insure complete contract documents, covering all 
subject matter concerning the dwellings components, methods of installation, etc. 
1) 
Schematic Design Phase. This is the Conceptual Design effort to establish the 
Authority's requirements for the project, and to define these requirements so that the 
Authority and the project team clearly understand the scope and limitation of the 
services. 
Main design requirements of the Schematic Design are the following: 
a) 
Prepare written project program 
b) 
Prepare schematic design studies 
c) 
Prepare probably project cost 
d) 
Hold project review with in-house team and developer 
e) 
Secure the Authority's written approval of Phase I and authorization to proceed 
with minimum supervision. 
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2) 
Design Development Phase. This is the "Design Freeze" phase to research and 
develop the Schematic Design Studies to the point of proving compatibility of all 
systems incorporated in the project. The intent is that subsequently, final contract 
documents can be developed from the Design Development document with minimum 
supervision by the Authority. 
a) 
Prepare Design Development Drawings 
b) 
Prepare outline specifications 
c) 
Verify Design Criteria with Applicable agencies 
d) 
Hold in-house and Developer review 
3) 
Contract Document Phase. This is the design effort to prepare final contract drawing 
and specification necessary to construct the project. Final documents should evolve 
smoothly from the information provided in the Design Development Phase. 
a) 
Prepare contract drawings 
b) 
Prepare contract Specifications 
c) 
File contract documents with applicable authorities 
Building Design Guidelines 
Building design should provide for an attractive living facility and environment suited to the 
social economic and recreational needs of resident families and individuals. It should provide 
for ease of circulation and housekeeping, visual and auditory privacy, appropriate light and 
ventilation, fire and accident protection, economy in maintenance and use of space, accessory 
services, energy efficiency, and sanitation facilities. 
1) 
Allowable Housing Types: 
a) 
Single Family detached 
b) 
Single Family semi - detached Townhouse 
c) 
Single Family apartment - type Condominium 
Units can be either all single family three (3) bedroom units or a combination of three, two, 
or one bedrooms. When in combination the ratio should be approximately 8: I: 1. 
2) 
Acceptable Building Systems 
a) 
Reinforced Concrete block throughout 
b) 
Reinforced concrete block with frame interior. 
c) 
Reinforced concrete with concrete block or frame interior 
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3) 
4) 
S) 
d) 
Steel frame with masonry exterior 
e) 
Steel frame with lath and plaster exterior or other acceptable composite 
material 
Other building systems must be submitted to the VIHF A for review and approval 
Recommended minimum unit sizes 
a) 
b) 
c) 
Three Bedroom home 
Two bedroom home 
One Bedroom 
1,100 square feet 
900 square feet 
600 square feet 
Recommended minimum space requirements 
a) 
Master bedroom 
156 square feet 
b) 
Bedroom Two 
124 square feet 
c) 
Bedroom one 
100 square feet 
d) 
Kitchen 
70 square feet 
e) 
Dining area 
90 square feet 
f) 
Living area 
150 square feet 
g) 
Living / dining 
240 square feet 
h) 
Linen closet 
4 square feet 
i) 
Storage closet 
8 square feet 
j) 
Laundry room 
32 square feet 
k) 
Balcony/Porch 
I 00 square feet 
1) 
Miscellaneous 
Access and circulation 
Space and facilities should be provided for convenient access to and circulation within 
dwellings for occupants and for movement of furniture and supplies. The relationship of 
rooms within the living unit and the relationship ofliving units to each other should provide a 
degree of privacy commensurate with desirable living conditions. 
- Entrances facilities 
Entrances should have appropriately sized exterior platforms/landings, when access is not 
from a paved area such as a porch, terrace, garage or carport. All entries front, side or rear 
must have overhead coverage, to the extent that no weather hits directly onto the entry door, 
itself. In cases where this is not possible, or is too costly for such overhead coverage 
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(roofing) then partial coverage and protection is acceptable as long as doors are properly 
protected from wind driven rain entering the dwelling. In no case shall the whole door be 
exposed to weather. 
- Door and Openings 
Recommended minimum doorway widths should be: 
Public Doors 
Main entrance to building 
Secondary public entrance 
Service entrance 
Public stairway 
Private Doors 
3-0 
3-0 
2-8 
3-0 
Main entrance to living unit 
3-0 
Secondary entrance to living unit 
2-8 
Bathrooms, toilets in living unit 
2-6 
Habitable rooms 
2-6 
A door with an appropriate locking devise should be provided at each entrance to a building, 
living unit and required stairway enclosure: within the living unit, a door should be provided 
at each opening to a bedroom, toilet room and closets. Entry doors require a dead bolt with a 
min. I-inch throw and an entry lockset that are keyed alike. Preferable all entry doors and 
dead bolts are keyed alike to any particular dwelling unit. 
- Circulation 
Each bedroom should have access to a bedroom without an intervening bedroom, kitchen~ or 
principal living or dining area. Bedrooms should not afford the only access to a required 
bathroom except in one bedroom units. Neither a bedroom nor a bathroom should afford the 
only access to a habitable room. 
- Stairways 
Stairways and landing should provide for shaft ascent and decent under normal and 
emergency conditions and for transportation of furniture and equipment. They should be 
designed to minimize noise transmission into adjacent living units. 
Stairways having three or more risers should have a handrail 30-34 inches in height on at 
least one side of the stairways. Handrails should have intennediate rails or ornamental 
13 
closures (banisters or picket, or solid walls) which will not allow passage of an object 4 
inches (102 mm) or more in diameter. 
6) 
Light and Ventilation 
Light and ventilation should be provided to achieve a healthful environment within the 
dwelling and so located as to provide an acceptable degree of comfort. Structural spaces 
should have natural ventilation to reduce conditions conducive to decay and to release stored 
heat. Ventilation should be consistent for the removal of excessive moisture vapor in living 
units. Cross ventilation in all rooms is preferred. 
7) 
Fire Protection 
Every living unit should be constructed so as to reduce fire hazard, and should be separated 
from every other living unit by construction or distance to restrict the spread of fire. It should 
also be designed to provide means of safe egress in the event of fire, i.e.: Fire Egress 
windows are required in any bedroom, without a door to the exterior. 
(a) 
Combustible walls which are penetrated with electrical outlets or other 
mechanical devices should have interior (cavity) fire protection. 
(b) 
Walls should extend at least 12 inches above top of roof. 
(c) 
Supporting wall beams and columns should have one hour fire rating. 
Interior Fire Protection: Party, Common and Zero Lot- Line Walls 
(a) 
Walls should extend the full height of the dwelling without opening from 
foundation to the roof. 
(b) 
Walls separating row houses may be carried up to the underside of the roof 
sheathing and sealed tightly. 
( c) 
Plumbing stacks may be placed in party, common and Zero Lot line walls 
where wall construction provides a minimum of one-hour protection on each 
side of stacks. Penetration of the wall by electrical outlets or recessed cabinets 
should not be back to back, and there should be a minimum of one - hour 
protection around penetration. 
( d) 
Fire Alarm and Extinguishing Systems: all building should be fire protected 
based on the National Fire Code Standards. 
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8) 
Accessibility to the Physically Handicapped 
The American with Disabilities Act provides specific criteria for housing units required to be 
accessible to the physically handicapped. See Act for specific directions. 
GUIDELINES FOR SITE DEVELOPMENT 
Site development includes the arrangement of all facilities necessaty to crate a safe, 
functional, convenient, healthful, durable and attractive living environment for residents. 
This section gives the basic guidelines and considerations to be used by developers in 
planning subdivisions, individual sites and Multi- family Housing developments. 
1) 
Land Use 
Land use planning for all housing should relate appropriately to all site conditions and to the 
existing or permissible development of adjoining properties. 
a) Building Location and Arrangement 
The use of a proposed site should be planned for buildings so arranged on the site and 
having characteristics which assure that: 
(i) 
The property has adequate visual appeal. 
(ii) 
The property can be operated and maintained at costs reasonably to 
income. 
(iii) 
The land use and other site planning are met. 
(iv) 
Zoning and other local regulations are complied with. 
The building arrangement and location should relate well to: 
(i) 
The natural; topography, avoiding deep cuts, fills, excessive foundation 
wall depth, unnecessary steps and steep access gradients. 
(ii) 
Climatic conditions, assuring maximum benefit from and protection 
against, as appropriate, sun wind, temperature precipitation, etc. 
(iii) 
Attractive on - site views. 
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Building location, arrangement, and orientation should assure adequate open - space 
for outdoor living areas, all facilities, services, amenities and for interior natural light, 
air and privacy. 
b) Intensity of Development 
The number, size and type of dwellings along with parking spaces, recreation and 
other open spaces should be determines by the characteristics of the site, its location, 
land cost, and acceptability by the community. 
c) Noise Control 
Through the use of site design techniques such as building location and orientation, 
window placement and the use of barriers, predictable undesirable site noise should 
be moderated to as close to acceptable levels as practicable. 
d) Site Surrounding 
The site design should be arranged when practical and possible to harmonize with the 
complement functions and appearance of site surrounding which have a significant 
bearing on the site. Where the surroundings of a site have incongruous functions or 
undesirable visual conditions, buffers or screen devices sufficient to separate or 
modify these unpleasant conditions should be provided. 
No site should be developed where external influences on the site create conditions 
undesirable for residential use such as: 
(i) 
Hazardous landslides falling rock, or other unstable slope conditions due to 
site topographic or geologic conditions: 
(ii) 
Unwarranted risks from man- made hazards such as the presence of hazardous 
materials, or the presence of potentially hazardous industrial activity or 
material in the surrounding area; and 
(iii) 
Nuisances from odors, vibrations, unsightly areas nearby landfills, 
inconvenience or other nuisances. 
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2) 
Utilities 
Tbe site design should provide for all utilities in a manner which allows economy in 
construction and maintenance. It should be arranged to recognize existing easements, utility 
lines, etc., and permit connection to existing facilities where necessary, and for the proper 
functioning or drainage of utilities. 
3) 
a) Installation: 
Where utilities will be installed below ground, they should be located in the right-of-
way of a street or alley, or in an easement. All utilities and service connections that 
will be located under street pavement should be completely installed, properly back 
filled and graded, and approved throughout the length of the street before any 
pavement base is applied. 
Electrical and telephone distribution systems should be provide underground in all 
residential developments unless it can be established that installation is economically 
unfeasible. 
Streets 
The street system should be designed to provide for all traffic needs and at the same time 
create a street arrangement that will make as attractive neighborhood and good building sites. 
Streets located with proper regard to topography and traffic flow increase neighborhood 
desirability and minimize development expense. The proposed street system within a 
subdivision should be tied in with the existing streets system. The proposed street system 
should also provide for the continuation of the existing community's system. 
Street Patterns are numerous and can create a wide variety of community patterns. Streets 
should serve both as areas for pedestrian and automobile movement and as fixed spaces for 
separating activities. Access, safety~ economy and livability should be considered in street 
design. 
a) Street Construction 
All streets and parking areas should have sufficient gradient to provide for adequate 
drainage. Streets gradient should not exceed 18%. Storm sewers or drainage ditches 
should be provided to accept surface run-off and prevent pooling on roadway areas. 
Street sub-grades should provide a stable platform for the base and wearing surface 
under all geologic, hydrologic and climate conditions. The sub-grade should be 
judged acceptable according to soil type and anticipated traffic loads. 
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4) 
The base should be constructed in a manner which will provide a suitable course for 
the application of the final surfacing. The composition and depth of the base should 
be appropriate for the type and amount of traffic anticipated, which shall include 
water delivery and trash removal vehicles (trucks). 
Hard surfaced wearing surfaces are the only type of surfaces generally acceptable. 
These can be cement concrete pavement or asphalt concrete. All-weather surfaces can 
be accepted on a temporary basis. However, before the project closes out, a pennanent 
Hard Surface finish must be applied. 
b) Related Improvements 
I) 
Planting strips: When provided, should not be less than 12 inches in 
width. Planting at intersections should not interfere with lines of sight 
necessary for safe driving conditions. 
2) 
Streets lighting: In addition to the required street intersection lighting, 
it may be desirable for the Developer to bear the cost of street lights 
installation throughout the subdivision. 
Site Grading 
Site grading should be designed to establish building floor elevations and ground surface 
grades which; 
a) 
Minimize earth settlement problems. 
b) 
A void concentrating run off onto neighboring properties where erosion or 
other damage will be caused. 
c) 
Provide usable outdoor space. 
d) 
Minimize erosion. 
e) 
Avoid deep cuts and fills. 
t) 
Minimize the need for banks, retaining walls or terracing, and avoid long or 
repeated flights of steps 
g) 
Allow for homeowner's to fence property easily. 
Grades which direct a concentrated flow of surface drainage over existing or proposed slopes 
should not be designed. 
All earth slopes with grades of 3 to I or steeper should be planted with appropriate vegetative 
cover to minimize erosion. 
Maximum gradient for usable open space should be 10 percent. 
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5) 
Drainage 
Provision should be made for the best available routing of runoff water to assure that 
building or others important facilities will not be endangered by the path of major emergency 
flood runoff which would become active if the capacity or the site storm drainage systems is 
exceeded. 
a) 
b) 
c) 
Swales and open ditches 
In areas with an open drainage ditch, where these facilities intersect streets, 
culverts and bulkheads, and/or drainage diversion walls adequately sized and 
constructed to prevent the flow of water across the pavement surfaces and 
erosion of the roadway base as required. Where water flow is planned to cross 
any roadway, purposefully, a concrete swale shall be installed at the 
appropriate location and of the appropriate width and depth as per engineering 
determinations for volume of water (ie: 100 yr. storm). 
Where Swales or drainage ditches intersect at sidewalk or driveway, an 
adequately sized culvert or bridge should be provided. In the case of 
driveways that intersect with roadside swales, driveway aprons should be 
design as a part of the swale with similar slopes. Walles should not be designed 
as drainage ways. 
Storm Sewer 
A storm sewer or swale discharge into ponds, swales or ditches should have 
either rip~rap, head wall, or other similar protection to prevent undennining of 
the outlet pipe and erosion of the side slopes. 
Consideration should be given to emergency outlets when the storm sewer 
systems are inoperable due to blockage or when the design capacity has been 
exceeded. 
Head walls and other appropriate construction should be placed at the open 
ends of storm sewers to prevent excessive erosion and undennining of 
conduits. 
Surface Drainage 
Developed portions of a site which can be adversely affected by a potentially 
19 
high ground water table should be drained where possible to surface drainage 
facilities adequate for the disposal of excess ground water. 
Septic systems should be placed 50 feet downhill of cistern, when not possible 
the requirement is: top of septic elevation is to be at least two feet below the 
cistern bottom elevation and placed no closer than 20 feet away from cisterns. 
(note: always check w/ DPNR for latest criteria) 
6) 
The Proposed Site 
The site design should be arranged to unitize and preserve the favorite features and 
characteristics of the site and to avoid or minimize the potential harmful effects of 
unfavorable features. 
7) 
a) 
Topography 
In the design of a site, the effects of topographic conditions on the cost of 
development and operation should be considered when locating various uses 
on the land. Land uses should be combined with site conditions in a manner 
which permits correction of potential hazards. All elements of the site plan 
should be designed to the natural contour of the land as closely as possible and 
practicable. 
b) 
Vegetation 
Existing healthy trees, shrubs, and natural cover of good quality which will 
contribute to the living environment and which can be saved within the site 
design should be preserved. 
Yard and Building Setback Distances 
The setback distance of building from the front property line and the street lot line should: 
(a) 
Be diversified to assure visible variety in building and space relationship 
avoiding monotony. 
(b) 
Be consistent with the best building placement considering the topography and 
other site conditions. 
( c) 
Provide space for facilities for necessary functions such as walks, drives, 
parking space and plant materials. 
20 
( d) 
Be adequate to assure reasonable visual and auditory privacy for indoor and 
living areas. 
( e) 
Minimize adverse effects of fumes, headlight glare, and other nuisances. 
Buildings should also be set back from parking areas and screened to minimize head light 
glare into habitable rooms and should be arranged to prevent direct or concentrated discharge 
of automobile exhausts into any window. 
8) 
Parking Areas 
Adequate parking space should be provided for residents, guests and, where appropriate, 
service vehicles. Where practical, additional parking space should be planned and reserved 
for future use. 
a) 
Number of spaces 
The number of parking spaces to be provided should be based on individual 
analysis of each housing proposal. 
Detached single family housing should have one parking space per unit on 
each lot. This space should have at least an all weather surface and minimum 
dimensions of l O feet by 20 feet. 
Off - site parking spaces for multi- family housing may be substituted for on-
site parking, if available, and acceptable to the local authorities. 
b) 
Parking Bays 
Parking bays for multi- family projects and townhouses should meet the 
following: 
(i) 
Minimum single space dimension should be 9 feet wide and 18 feet at 
deep. 
(ii) 
Maximum single distance from a parking space to a public entrance of 
apartment building served should be. 
- Non-elderly 200 feet 
- Elderly residential parking space I 00 feet 
- Guest parking space 250 feet 
21 
9) 
Walks 
(iii) 
Wheel stops or other appropriate barriers should be provided and 
suitably placed to prevent unwanted vehicular encroachment beyond 
parking area limits. 
Walks should be provided for sale convenient access to all dwelling and for safe pedestrian 
circulation throughout a development between facilities and locations where major need for 
pedestrian access can be anticipated. 
Minimum walk widths should be: 
a) 
Principal walks serving more than one unit 4 feet 
b) 
Minor walks serving only one unit 3 feet 
c) 
One & two family dwe1ling entrance walks 3 feet 
10) 
Services 
Necessary services supplied by the Jocal community should be provided the required space 
and accommodation in the site design to permit economical operation and maintenance. 
Direct and convenient site access should be provided for all deliveries and services including 
furniture moving van, fuel trucks, refuse collections, utility meter reading, mail deliveries, 
fire fighting equipment and ambulances. 
a) 
Garbage and refuse 
Single family housing should have space adjacent to each living unit for refuse 
can storage. Multiple family housing projects should have an outdoor facility 
for garbage and refuse collection and disposal which can be maintained in a 
sanitary, sighted condition where other provisions have not been made. 
Collection stations should be design with easily cleaned, durable or paved 
surfaces. 
b) 
Service screening 
Service areas and facilities should be screened. 
22 
11) 
Planting Design 
Planting design should coordinate appropriate new plant materials and their ecological 
requirements with the climate, soil, orientation, water courses, existing vegetation, related 
natural resources and manmade facilities. A variety of plant materials should be provided to 
enhance the appearance of building and grounds, provide necessary screening, help separate 
incompatible use areas, arrest erosion and reduce noise. 
a) Lawns 
Lawns preparation should include a surface layer having a minimum depth of 4 inches 
of surface soil with known local capability of satisfactorily lawn growth. 
12) 
Site Details 
Elements of the site such as shelters, service structures, walls, fences, planting tubs and 
boxes, benches, patios recreational equipment and paved areas should be furnished according 
to occupant needs and sponsoring agency's guidance. 
a) 
Laundry drying yards 
Laundry drying space should be provided in suitable areas and located away 
from public view where other laundcy drying facilities are not furnished. 
b) 
Walls and fences 
Walls and fences should be included in the site design as appropriate to 
provided safety, screening, noise, reduction or grade transition. 
Guardrails or other suitable barriers should be provided on accessible retaining 
walls or at other locations which, because of the height (24 inches or over) or 
other factors, constitute a hazard to life safety. 
13) 
Outdoor Lighting 
All public areas where pedestrians can be anticipated after sunset should be adequately 
lighted for security purposes. Arrangements should be made for the permanent maintenance 
and operation of such lighting. 
23 
14) 
Common Use Facilities and Recreation 
Improved open space should be provided for common usage and for recreation. The 
improvement should be consistent with the size of the development, age levels, and the needs 
of intended occupants and should take into consideration operation and maintenance costs. 
The recreation space should be adequate, appropriately equipped and should allow for both 
active recreation, such as playgrounds or sports, and for passive recreation such as parks and 
sitting areas. 
Recreation areas for the elderly should be separate from areas designed for use by children or 
young adults in developments accommodating both the elderly and younger families. 
SPECIFIC GUIDELINES FOR SITE GRADING AND DRAINAGE 
1) 
General 
Construction complaints and structural defects due to inadequate grading and drainage 
grading and drainage remain one of site development 's biggest problems. The following 
guidelines are applicable to all proposed development. 
A. 
Drainage of Surface Water should be provided away from all buildings and off 
the lot in a manner that will: 
(i) 
minimize possibility of dampness to below grade walls and crawl 
spaces; 
(ii) 
prevent adverse supporting soi] behavior; 
(iii) 
prevent soil erosion; and 
(iv) 
prevent standing or pond of water on site. 
8. 
Site Grading and Drainage should: 
(i) 
provided suitable access from abutting street to the dweUing and any 
accessory buildings; 
(ii) 
provided immediate diversion of water away from building and off the 
site; 
24 
(iii) 
avoid concentrating runoff onto neighboring properties where 
erosion or other damage may be caused; 
(iv) 
provide usable outdoor space for occupants; and 
(v) 
minimize erosion. 
2) 
Finished Gradine; 
All unpaved lot areas, except those preserved in an appropriate natural condition, should be 
fine graded to provide smooth even surfaces conforming to elevations noted below. All 
visible rock and debris should be removed prior to fine grading. 
A. 
Minimum Protective Slopes 
All walls and foundation of building and any water- supply we]] should be provided 
with protective slopes to assure immediate drainage and diversion of surface water 
away from these structures. 
(i) 
Provided minimum fall of 6 inches away from structure in IO feet, 
except as restricted by side Jot lines or other major considerations, 
without regard to soil type. 
(ii) 
Provided at least 6 inches in 25 feet in all other unpaved areas subject 
to expansive or colJapsible soils. 
(iii) 
Drainage swales or valleys fanned by intersecting slopes should have 
adequate depth, width and longitudinal gradient to carry away the 
maximum predictable volume of storm water runoff. 
(iv) 
Areaways for sub-grade windows and entrances should be provided 
with effective drainage facilities. Catchments area should be as small as 
possible and must be protected from overflow of storm water from 
adjacent areas. 
B. 
Maximum Slopes 
Height and steepness of slopes and maximum 
gradients of unpaved drainage 
channels should be such as can be satisfactorily maintained without erosion or land 
slippage and should provided satisfactory access to and around the structure. For 
25 
access around building and for maintenance of building and lot improvement, provide 
an area generally at least 4 feet wide with a gradient away from building no steeper 
than 1 in 4 (25% gradient). 
C. 
Suitable Drainage Structures such as paved gutters, drain inlets and 
subsurface drain lines should be insulted where necessary to protect against 
dampness, flooding, erosion or other damage by surface water or ground water. 
Perimeter foundation drains are necessary on all houses with sub-grade habitable 
living spaces in situations where water and/or soil conditions warrant their use. 
3) 
Walks, Steps and Driveways 
A walk and any necessary step should provide safe and convenient use from house directly to 
the street or to a driveway connected to a street. Walle and step construction should be of 
durable and appropriate material, on stable, adequately drained sub-grade or bed. 
a) 
Walkway and Step Design 
(i) 
Gradient should not be steeper than 1 in 10 (10 %) 
(ii) 
Cross-slope should be adequate for immediate drainage of surface 
water off walk. 
(iii) 
A single step; in a walk and any flight of steps of more than 5 feet total 
rise should be avoided where ever practical; substantial handrail of 
durable construction must be provided if more than a 30-inch rise in a 
single flight. 
b) 
Driveway 
Driveways should be provided from street to parking area; preferably it should be at 
the side of the building unit and not at the front. Construction should be of suitable 
sub grade, base drainage and surfacing so as to be durable under the use and 
maintenance contemplated. 
(i) 
Longitudinal gradient should not be less than one percent or more than 
14 percent except in unusual circumstances. 
(ii) 
Gradient transitions should be provided at top and bottom of a steep 
driveway to prevent dragging of vehicle undercarriage or bumper 
26 
guards. 
(iii) 
Gradient of a required.parking space should be steeper than 5 percent. 
ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS GUIDELINES 
Minimum construction documents Submittals requirements for final review of proposed 
housing development. 
A. Plot Plan 
Minimum scale or 1" = 20 feet or 11/6 " = 1 foot, showing: 
1) 
Lot and block number; 
2) 
Dimensioned length of each boundary; 
3) 
North arrow; 
4) 
Dimensions of front back and side yard 
5) 
Location and dimensions of garage, carport, and other accessory buildings; 
6) 
Location of streets, curbs, walks, driveways, approach slabs, surfacing and 
utilities; 
7) 
Location of steps, terraces, porches, fences, trees, shrubs, retaining walls, 
slopes, and drainage swales, channels, pipes and related facilities; 
8) 
Location and dimensions of easements and established setback requirements, if 
any; 
9) 
Grade elevations will be provided at; 
a) 
First floor of dwelling and floor or other accessory buildings; 
b) 
Finish curb or crown of street at points of extension of lot lines; 
c) 
Existing and finished grade elevations at each comer of the plot and 
each principal comer of the dwelling; 
27 
d) 
Finished grade elevations at the toe of any slopes or retaining walls; 
e) 
Other site elevations necessary to show proper grading and the flow 
routes of surface drainage. 
f) 
Detailed existing and finished grade elevations are required where 
topography, or design of the structure, necessitates special grading, 
drainage, sub- drainage, slope stabilization or function design; 
B. 
FLOOR AND FOUNDATION PLANS 
Minimum scale of 1/4
11 = 1 foot, showing: 
1) 
Provide separate foundation and cistern plan with construction details, 
including any sub-drainage facilities. Where on-site soils are expansive, 
compressible, collapsible or organic, or where subsidence is possible, 
foundation plans must be accompanied by supporting soil, geologic, ground 
water and structural design information. 
2) 
Plan of each floor or lower floor, if any. If dwelling is of crawl space type, or 
slab-on-grade, provide separate foundation plans showing construction details. 
3) 
Plan of any attached terrace, porch, garage, or carport. 
4) 
Direction, size, and spacing of all floors and ceiling framing members, 
girders, columns or piers. 
5) 
Location of all partitions and walls, indicating door and window sizes and 
direction of door swing. 
6) 
Location and size of alJ permanently installed construction and equipment (i.e., 
kitchen cabinets, closets, shelves, plumbing fixtures, water heaters and 
pumps). Details of cabinets may be on separate drawings, or provided as a 
"Shop Drawing", for approval by VIHF A prior to manufacturing/purchasing. 
7) 
Location and symbols of all electrical equipment, including switches, outlets, 
fixtures and panels, unless provided on a separate sheet, or in the electrical 
plan. 
28 
C. 
EXTERIOR ELEVATIONS 
Minimum scale 1/4 " = 1 foot, much show: 
1) 
Front, rear, and both side elevations. 
2) 
Windows and doors- show size unless separately scheduled or shown on floor 
plan. 
3) 
Wall finishes, materials. 
4) 
Depth of wall footing, foundations or piers; show stepped, if at more than one 
level. 
5) 
Finished floor line. 
6) 
Finished grade lines at buildings, shown extending out I Oft from build. 
D. 
SECTIONS 
Minimum scale of 3/8"= I foot, shall be provided through the following areas of the 
structure: 
1) 
Exterior wall sections must show details of construction from the bottom of the 
foundation to the highest point of the roof. 
2) 
Show wall sections through any portion of the dwelling where rooms are 
situated at various levels. 
3) 
Stairwells, landings and stairs, including headroom clearances and surrounding 
framing. 
E. 
DETAILS 
Provide the following: 
1) 
Elevations and sections through kitchen cabinets, indicating shelving, scale not 
less than 3/8" = I foot. 
2) 
Sections and details of all critical construction points, special structural items 
or special millwork, scale not less than 3/8" = I foot. 
29 
F. 
ELECTRICAL PLAN 
Minimum scale¼" = 1 foot. Must show the following: 
1) 
That all work will be performed based in NEC standards. 
2) 
All electrical fixture, outlets and switches denoted by types and height off 
finished floor. 
3) 
All panel, service feeder, grounding, loading and main switching information. 
4) 
Schedule of fixtures with type, make, models and finishes. 
5) 
A note that all circuit breakers must be labeled and tested by an electrical 
contractor prior to calling for final inspection. 
6) 
Electrical meters to be furnished by W AP A. Meter locations to be approved 
by W AP A, prior to plan submittal to VIHF A. Provide letter of confirmation 
W AP A has excepted planned location. 
7) 
Provide separate service and meter for sewer plant. 
DWELLING UNIT CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICATIONS GUIDELINES 
The specifications that follow are a minimum guide to aid developers. These are intended to 
supplement the local and other national codes that HUD may require. 
1) 
Roofs with minimum slope of3:12 pitch in order to be self-cleaning and to be good 
catchments for drinking water. If of concrete or wood, waterproof with; Vandux, 
neoprene-Hypalon, or equal. 
2) 
Exterior walls shall be of reinforced concrete, concrete masonry units, precast units, 
or other masonry materials or other composite materials approved by the Authority. 
3) 
Wall finish-exterior: cement plaster, stucco, or synthetic plaster compound. 
4) 
Wall finish-interior: Cement Plaster, and/or Gypsum wallboard. Showers, tubs and 
bath waincots to have ceramic tiles. 
30 
5) 
Floor finish - interior: vinyl or better except bathroom to be ceramic tile or 
terrazzo. Base; vinyl or ceramic tiles shall be installed. Contractor to furnish five 
square feet of each color tile used as a part of the closeout package. 
6) 
Ceiling: Cement plaster, stucco, drywall acoustic materials, exposed plywood and 
rafters. 
7) 
Gallery and service porch finish: Polished cement, quarry tile, terrazzo or equal. 
8) 
Stair and railing: Cement non-slip finish. Railing both sides; interior stairs of units 
may have railings on one side. Railings designed to protect children from passing 
through, 4" maximum spacing between elements; Stair to have minimum of 7'-0" 
head clearance. 
9) 
Closet: 7/8 thick louvered door, shelf and hanging rod. Linen closet with doors and 5 
shelves. If plywood is used for shelves edge- banding wilJ be required. Chipboard or 
particle board is not acceptable. 
10) 
Kitchen: 
a) 
Back splash: Ceramic tile or laminated plastic sanitary type. If laminate over 
plywood is used, provide double seal against water penetration by sealing 
backsplash to countertop during installation of backsplash and then utilize a 
waterproof caulking on face at countertop, filling any gaps and leaving a 
slightly coved, even and neat finish. 
b) 
Counter tops 3/4" min. thick, luan, edai or Philippine mahogany plywood faced 
with ceramic tile or plastic laminate. 
c) 
Cabinets: commercial or custom made hinged doors 5/8" thickness Juan, edai 
or Philippine mahogany plywood faced and edge-banded with plastic laminate. 
d) 
Storage Closet with door and shelves, 18"x18" or larger. 
e) 
Kitchen sink: 18 ga. minimum stainless steel, double bowl. Clips also stainless 
steel. 
f) 
Rough-in 220V electric service to 30" range. 
g) 
Refrigerator: Provide 36" space and electrical outlet. 
31 
h) 
Water heater: Electric, gas lined 20 gallon or equipment solar heating system. 
11 ) 
Laundry: 
a) 
Separated from kitchen 
b) 
Laundry tray: Enameled C. I., fiberglass. 
c) 
Provide recessed box with valves and drain, electrical service and space for 
110 V washer and 220 V dryer. 
d) 
Clotheslines: 40 linear feet per dwelling unit. 
e) 
Where clothes lines are in yard provide paved walkway to and under drying 
area. 
f) 
Drying areas shall be screened from view. 
g) 
Utility storage cabinet same construction as kitchen unit. 
h) 
Provide venting to exterior for dryer location, including a automatic closure 
device to prevent insects, and or other intrusion. 
12) 
Bathroom: 
a) 
Floors and base ceramic tile or terrazzo. Ceramic tile at shower, up to 6'-6" 
AFF. Provide marble threshold at door. 
b) 
Wainscot of ceramic tile at plumbing walls. Ceramic tiles at shower 6'-6" high. 
c) 
Enamel water closet (toilet) with solid seat and lid. Water conservation type. 
d) 
Lavatory of enamel with hot and cold water and angle stop on each line. 
e) 
Recessed, or surface mounted medicine cabinet with mirror and a seperate 
lighting fixture. 
f) 
Two 30 inch towel bars, one rob hook 
g) 
Soap dish at shower or tub. 
32 
MISC: 
h) 
Toilet paper holder. 
i) 
Plumbing lines: cold water, waste, soil and vent- 40 PVC; hot water; copper 
orCPVC. 
j) 
Bath accessories surface mounted except soap dish at shower, which can be 
ceramic. 
13) 
Screens at window and sliding doors. 
14) 
Exterior doors I 3/4" flush solid core, or paneled- rail & style door, waterproof glues. 
Full coat of paint or clear finish on all edges and surfaces, 2 coat work, min. 
15) 
Wood or 20 gauge zinc coated steel frames. 
16) 
All lumber and plywood including door frames and door stop to be pressure treated 
No.I grade. 
17) 
Hardware: Federal specifications FF-H-106 series 161, high frequency use. 
Construction keyed. No master keys. Include peephole, chimes or buzzer at front 
door. Sliding glass door with pin or sledge type lock to permit locking in partially 
opened position. 
18) 
Window to comply with IBC 2003 edition for wind resistance. Color to be approved 
by VIHF A. Window to bear certificate of performance, Egress window from each 
bedroom (see HUD requirements). 
19) 
Lighting Fixture: Porcelain not allowed except in storage areas and pump room. 
Residential type to meet (HUD) MPS. Plastic type preferred complete with lamps. 
20) 
Provide meter base for each unit. If needed, provide separate meter base for 
community spaces such as stairs, hall ways etc. these should be vandal proof fixtures. 
21) 
Telephones and cable outlets for master bedroom and living/dining area. 
22) 
Rain water: Strainer on roof drain and cistern overflow. Locate overflow so as not to 
affect lower windows, doors, porches, etc. Grade surrounding area at overflow to be 
easily maintained by Buyer, (i.e.: via lawn mower) Provide a "Splash Block" or 
33 
"Riprap" to prevent erosion at overflow outlet, outflow. If the overflow outlet pipe 
has to be extended, underground, to provide an outlet for proper drainage/outflow, 
then a "Clean-Out" shall be installed at a point, just outside of the cistern. 
23) 
Designs should not require artificial ventilation. Cross-ventilation designs are 
recommended. 
24) 
Paint: Minimum two (2) coats in addition to appropriate type of primer coat, per 
materials to be painted. Exterior: Oil or acrylic latex; Interior: Semi Gloss washable 
enamels in kitchens and baths, satin or flat wall finish elsewhere. Surface must be 
properly prepared to receive finish coats. Paint shall be locally available. 
B. 
Site Improvement 
1) 
Topsoil and lawn: 4" topsoil. All disturbed areas to be grassed and landscaped. 
2) 
Trees: Existing trees 4 •• and over to be retained and protected during 
construction. 
3) 
Water service; sch. 40 PVC. 
4) 
Sanitary sewer: schedule 40, PVC. Storm sewer; Coated metal or concrete. 
5) 
Parking: One parking space per dwelling unit, ten spaces per community of 
fifty residents. 
6) 
Street lighting per W AP A requirements, to be turned over to local government. 
7) 
Streets, curb and sidewalk be laid out and constructed to PWD requirements. 
8) 
Cistern: 10 gallons per roof area for one story buildings. 15 gallons per roof 
area for two story buildings. Unless newer regulations apply to project 
location, where potable water is available, in such case a reduce capacity is 
acceptable. 
a) 
Water proof interior with min. 2 coats of thoroseal or approved equal. 
b) 
Cistern access should be sanitary sealed when not located within the 
building and shall be barred and locked. 
c) 
Cistern should be 50% full and health tested before closing. 
34 
d) 
Individual detached or semi- detached homes shall have one Meyer's 
electric pump or approved equal and one 30 gallon pressure tank. Pump 
and tanks to be securely enclosed to prevent theft or vandalism. 
e) 
Where applicable provide metered connection to potable water with 
automatic device to fill cistern. 
f) 
Provide health Certificate showing water suitable for consumption. 
g) 
Address numbers shall be fastened to the front of each unit depicting 
the plot number and or street address, or unit number in min. 4" 
lettering. Location facing street front in single family housing and or 
entry access, for multifamily housing. 
C. 
GUIDELINES FOR PRODUCT DELIVERY 
The construction of all Affordable Housing Development shall be performed in accordance 
with the Affordable Housing Development Agreement which defines the roles and 
responsibilities of the Developer and the Authority. While the Developer's role is that of the 
builder and seller of homes, the Authority's role is a limited one having to do with the 
oversight of such developments. 
This over site sight, however, goes beyond that of the traditional lender's role since the 
Authority has an interest in ensuring that its applicants receive acceptable products and that 
its interest in the properties transferred to the Developer is safeguarded. 
In its responsibility for mortgage and loan financing, ensuring that the program's applicants 
receive quality homes and that participating Developers receive timely cooperation from 
supporting government agencies, the Authority's role in housing production will involve the 
following tasks: 
a) 
providing input into the initial stage of a project's development to influence cost 
containment, design innovations and aesthetics, and construction quality; 
b) 
assisting Developers in establishing a uniform reporting process for progress reporting 
and issue resolution; 
c) 
project monitoring and contrast compliance reporting; 
d) 
Coordinating or facilitating the flow of services from the various agencies of 
35 
government that provide assistance to the Affordable Housing Program. 
In the implementation of these tasks, the Authority has established a number of mandatory 
requirements for Developers. The standards for these requirements have borrowed heavily 
from the field of Construction Management and are essential to the performance of the 
Authority's over-site role. Their use is intended not only to protect the Authority's interest in 
the program but to assist developers where they are deficient in areas of construction 
management. 
The following requirements are mandatory submissions for participation in the development 
of homes initiated through the Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority. 
1) 
The Proiect Delivery Plan 
Before project mobilization, the developer must prepare a project delivery plan in 
cooperation with the Authority. This plan will outline the project scope, budget, basic 
systems to be utilized, manpower, methods and procedures to be followed. This will be a 
strategic plan against which the final performance of the project is evaluated and the success 
of the project judged. 
The project delivery plan should include the following components: 
a) 
Project description 
b) 
Master Schedule 
c) 
Milestone schedule 
d) 
Project organizational chart and staffing plan 
e) 
Explanation of roles, responsibilities and Authority of team members 
f) 
Site mobilization and utilization and utilization plan 
g) 
A quality assurance program and how it will be implemented 
h) 
Listing of meetings, including types and frequency. 
i) 
Sample forms to be used 
j) 
Project budget 
2) 
Project Schedules 
The Developer with the assistance of the Construction Manager will develop a series of 
schedules designed to enable the Authority and the Developer to have a clear concept of the 
time markers for accomplishing the various components of the project. These will consist of 
the Milestone Schedule, the Master Schedule and the Design Development and Construction 
schedules All of these are inter-dependent and require approval of the more general schedule 
before the more specific. 
36 
3) 
The Milestone Schedule 
This Schedule, for instance will include start up and completion dates for schematic design, 
design development, construction documents and construction while the Construction 
Schedule will outline the various time-frames for construction activities. It will establish the 
board time-frames of the overall project and the initial and latest acceptable dates for each 
activity. The milestone schedule will be part of the Developer's submittal for proposal 
review. 
4) 
Design Development Schedule 
The Developer should prepare a schedule for the planning and execution of all Design Phase 
requirements. This Schedule should be compatible with and be incorporated into the Master 
and Milestone Schedules. As the scope of the project is developed and further refined it will 
provide the basis for the further updating of those schedules. The Authority will closely 
monitor and review this phase to assist in keeping the project within the initial guidelines of 
the project. 
5) 
Construction Schedule 
At the commencement of the construction phase, the Developer with the assistance of the 
Authority, shall prepare and submit a detailed construction schedule for review and approval. 
After approval, this schedule should be incorporated into the Master and Milestone 
schedules. 
The details should include but not be limited to: 
a) 
Site development 
b) 
Infrastructure development 
c) 
General construction 
d) 
Final acceptance 
The Construction schedule should be acceptable to the Authority as providing an orderly 
progression of the work within the contract time. The Authority shall monitor the project for 
compliance with the construction schedule. 
6) 
Schedule Updatin2 
Updating the various schedules is an invaluable part of providing accurate reports on actual 
activity progress compared to that established by schedules. It is also a means of detennining 
37 
how each party associated with the project should proceed with the work in order to meet the 
overall completion dates. Schedules should be updated on an agreed upon interval between 
the Authority and the Developer. 
The Construction Manager will perform monthly review and assessment to determine the 
development team's adherence to established schedules. To facilitate this effort, a systematic 
process will be established for gathering and analyzing scheduling data and for participating 
with the Developers in the schedules updating process. 
7) 
Quality Review 
The most important function for the Authority in its oversight role is that of monitoring the 
various projects for contract compliance. This role stems from the need to ensure that the 
single family mortgage end-loans will be issued for homes that are of the quality established 
in the Affordable Housing Development Agreement and in the Individual contracts with 
applicants. Also of interest, is protecting the Authority's subordinate security interest in the 
land that maybe used by the Developer. 
Developers must review and become familiar with the Authority's program for monitoring 
each project for compliance with approved construction plans and specifications. The 
Program will include the setting up of various procedures for preliminary plan review and 
pre-construction and project close-out conferences. It will be implemented to guaranty 
acceptability at the project's final completion. The Authority's construction managers will 
work with Developers in familiarizing them with the plan and will have the right to reject 
work considered deficient or defective. 
Additionally, an acceptable system for determining substantial completion will be developed 
and made available to all Developers. Developers shall review and become thoroughly 
familiar with these requirements. Only after these standards have been met will a certificate 
of final completion be issued. 
8) 
Ree:ulatorv Facilitation 
An equally important role which is designed to assist Developers is the facilitator's role that 
the Authority has played since the program's inception. The various agencies that are 
mandated to provide governmental services for the Affordable Housing Program prove to be 
a fonnidable hurdle for individual developers to surmount. The Authority is committed to 
reducing the difficulties of this process. 
38 
; . 
C. CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT AGREEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION 
In meeting the Affordable Housing Goals, the V1HF A will not contract with developers to 
perform construction services for the Authority, nor will it be responsible for the sale of 
homes. These responsibilities will be solely those of the Developer. While the Authority will 
play an important role in the initiation of the various projects it wills only an indirect role in 
the management of their development. 
The Authoritf s role will be more of the traditional Housing Finance Authority, with the 
responsibility for setting applicant eligibility standards, prequalifying applicants and 
maintaining an eligibility list, monitor for construction quality compliance, certifying projects 
for Affordable Housing Tax benefits, making government owned land available for 
development, and using Mortgage Revenue Bond financing to establish low cost mortgage 
loans. 
Its role of construction management will involve the following tasks: a) providing input into 
project development in the initial stage to influence cost, design, construction quality and 
timely delivery of the project. b) Aiding developers with project scheduling, project reporting 
and establishing systems for accurate documentation. c) Project monitoring for contract 
compliance and d) coordinating or facilitating the flow of services from the various agencies 
that provide assistance to the Affordable Housing Program. 
To ensure an acceptable product delivery, the issues of cost, aesthetics, building innovations 
and construction quality must be discussed and resolve in the initial stage of the project, The 
agency must provide independent project cost estimates and value engineering methods as a 
back drop from which to view the developer's suggested development costs; it will use its 
knowledge of the pitfalls and opportunities that have grown from the history of the program 
development to provide valuable input in shaping each project. In order for the 
implementation of individual project to work within the cost and quality constraints of the 
program, construction management practices are an essential ingredient 
Delivery time for project development and delivery of homes for the program is very 
important since it is an issue that contributes to project cost. It is also an issue involving the 
timely use of the mortgage allocations and the orderly movement of applicants from their 
existing residences to new homes. All of these require that extraordinary efforts be.made to 
hold a developer to his project completion schedules. VIHF A is prepared to aid developers 
with project scheduling, establishing proper systems for coordination and reporting of 
information and establishing systems for accurate documentation of building infonnation. All 
of these elements, if handled professionally can save time and money in project development. 
39 
I 
The role of facilitator in connection with coordinating the various services that are mandated 
to be performed by local and federal agencies is an invaluable one in hurdling the time 
consuming bureaucratic processes of government agencies. From the initial preliminary 
subdivision permit to obtaining the certificate of Occupancy and all the other special 
exceptions that are needed in between to make project work, the Authority must be in a 
position to enlist the help of the various agencies on an expeditious basis. 
The most important function for the authority in its role in construction management is that 
of monitoring the various projects for contract compliance. This role stems from the need to 
ensure that the single family mortgage end-loans will be issued for homes that are of the 
quality established in the developer's agreement, and that the project will be finished without 
impediments that will jeopardize the second interest position the Authority will hold on the 
land sold to the developer. 
GENERAL CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION GUIDELINES 
a) 
The initial Proposal Agreement and the final contract must be free of ambiguities. 
Construction drawings must be through. No details shaU be left unfinished and subject 
to ambiguous interpretations. 
b) 
The project budget must reflect prevailing costs. If a developer price is so low that it 
causes concerns, he should be required to encumber the deferential between his price 
and the market price to ensure that the project will be finished. 
c) 
The varying roles of the Developer and the Authority should be precisely defined. 
d) 
VIHF A Inspector shall have authority to accept or reject materials and workmanship, 
based on Contract Documents. 
e) 
All defects in construction shall be repaired within two (2) weeks of notice of defect 
to contractor. 
t) 
Each construction project shall be required to have a project schedule. This must be 
developed in consultation with the Authority and reflecting the contractual deadlines. 
Specific Requirements of the Developer 
I) 
During construction there will be at least one meeting or conference per week 
including the VII-IF A, Developer, Contractor and all Subcontractors. 
40 
2) 
Before final inspections units shall be mopped clean, glass washed, windows' moving 
parts cleaned from dirt/dust, and lubricated as needed to be in good working order, 
water and electricity turned on, and area landscaped. This shall be repeated if 
necessacy, upon final punch listed work is accepted. 
3) 
Contractor shall keep one set of reproducible drawings marked daily with as-built 
conditions. At closing, VIHF A shall be provided with Mylar reproducible including 
as- built conditions. 
4) 
Before a project begins the Developer must supply the Authority with a specified 
number of construction documents and appropriate technical submittals, plan of 
manpower utilization, evidence of obtaining all required pennits and project schedule 
information. 
The promotion of affordable housing: Developers involved in the program will be 
responsible for the planning, design, construction and sale of housing units. As such the role 
of contract administration will be a reduced one. 
The Authority's role in construction Administration will be one of providing input into 
project development in the initial stages to influence cost, design, quality and timely 
development of the project. These are essential ingredients that determine the success of 
failure of a development project. 
The Authority has a vital role in ensuring that the projects are finished on a timely basis, 
since the mortgage allocation is for a fixed period. This role requires a proper system for 
coordination of information transmission, reporting and coordination be established. Each 
project must start with the greatest understanding of all aspects of the project. VIHF A can 
perform a valuable service in aiding the Developer with project scheduling, weekly and 
monthly reporting, establishing systems for accurate Documentation. These are all elements 
that if handled professionally can save time and money for the developer. 
Additionally, the Authority will perform the function of monitoring for contract compliance. 
In this role it will be the watch dog for the projects it helps set in motion and it will 
facilitating the flow of services from the various governmental agencies that provide 
assistance to the Affordable Housing Program. 
4t 
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