1. (a) Each Single Family Housing Unit constructed with HOME funds must meet the design and quality requirements as described in paragraphs (1)- (6) of this subsection, and plans must be certified by a licensed architect or engineer:

   1. (1) Current applicable International Residential Code, local codes, ordinances, and zoning ordinances in accordance with 24 CFR §92.251(a);
   2. (2) Requirements in Chapters 20 and 21 of this Title;
   3. (3) Units must Include the following amenities: Wired with RG-6 COAX or better and CAT3 phone cable or better to each bedroom and living room; Blinds or window coverings for all windows; Disposal and Energy-Star or equivalently rated dishwasher (must only be provided as an option to each Household); Oven/Range; Exhaust/vent fans (vented to the outside) in bathrooms; Energy-Star or equivalently rated lighting in all rooms, which may include LED bulbs. The living room and each bedroom must contain at least one ceiling lighting fixture and wiring must be capable of supporting ceiling fans; and Paved off-street parking for each unit to accommodate at least one mid-sized car and access to on-street parking for a second car;
   4. (4) Units must contain no less than two bedrooms. Each Single Family Housing Unit must contain complete physical facilities and fixtures for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation;
   5. (5) Each bedroom must be no less than 100 square feet; have a length or width no less than 8 feet; be self-contained with a door; have at least one window that provides exterior access; and have at least one closet that is not less than two feet deep and three feet wide and high enough to contain at least five feet of hanging space; and
   6. (6) Units must be no less than 800 total net square feet for a two bedroom Single Family Housing Unit; no less than 1,000 total net square feet for a three bedroom and two bathroom Single Family Housing Unit; and no less than 1,200 total net square feet for a four bedroom and two bathroom Single Family Housing Unit.
   7. (7) An exception to paragraphs (2) - (6) may be requested by the Household and approved by the Division Director prior to submission of the Activity. A request for an exception must include the specific feature or design requirement for which the exception is requested, and must include justification for the exception.
2. (b) Units selected by Households assisted under the Tenant-Based Rental Assistance Program must meet the applicable federal requirements for the HOME Program as of the date of initial occupancy and any subsequent inspection.

Source Note:The provisions of this §23.28 adopted to be effective February 26, 2025, 50 TexReg 976.