Accessibility Statement

Our Commitment to Accessibility

HousingBase is committed to ensuring digital accessibility for people with disabilities. We are continually improving the user experience for everyone and applying the relevant accessibility standards to ensure we provide equal access to all of our users.

We believe that everyone deserves access to affordable housing information and application tools, regardless of ability. Accessibility is not just a legal requirement—it's the right thing to do.

Conformance Standards

HousingBase aims to conform to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 at Level AAA, where feasible. These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities.

WCAG conformance levels include:

• Level A: The minimum level of conformance
• Level AA: The mid-range level (our minimum target)
• Level AAA: The highest level (our aspirational goal)

Accessibility Features

We have implemented numerous features to ensure our platform is accessible to all users:

Keyboard Navigation

• All interactive elements are keyboard accessible
• Logical tab order through all pages
• Visible focus indicators on all interactive elements
• Skip navigation links to bypass repetitive content
• Keyboard shortcuts for common actions

Screen Reader Support

• Semantic HTML for proper document structure
• ARIA labels and landmarks for navigation
• Alternative text for all meaningful images
• Descriptive link text (no "click here")
• Form labels and error messages read aloud
• Status updates announced dynamically

Visual Accessibility

• High color contrast ratios (minimum 7:1 for AAA)
• Resizable text up to 200% without loss of functionality
• No information conveyed by color alone
• Clear visual hierarchy and consistent layout
• Sufficient spacing between interactive elements
• Dark mode support for reduced eye strain

Content Accessibility

• Clear, simple language (reading level appropriate)
• Headings and lists for content structure
• Captions and transcripts for multimedia (when applicable)
• Printable versions of important documents
• Mobile-responsive design for all screen sizes

Form Accessibility

• Clear form labels associated with inputs
• Inline validation with descriptive error messages
• Required fields clearly marked
• Help text available for complex fields
• Autocomplete attributes for common fields
• Time limits can be extended or disabled

Compatible Assistive Technologies

HousingBase is designed to be compatible with the following assistive technologies:

• Screen Readers: JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, TalkBack
• Speech Recognition: Dragon NaturallySpeaking, Voice Control
• Screen Magnification: ZoomText, built-in browser zoom
• Alternative Input Devices: Switch controls, adaptive keyboards, eye-tracking devices

We test our platform regularly with popular assistive technologies to ensure compatibility and usability.

Known Limitations

Despite our best efforts, some limitations may exist. We are actively working to address the following known issues:

• Third-Party Content: Some embedded content from third parties (maps, payment processors) may not be fully accessible. We are working with vendors to improve this.
• PDF Documents: Some uploaded documents may not be screen-reader accessible. We encourage property managers to use accessible document formats.
• Historical Content: Some older content may not meet current accessibility standards. We are in the process of updating this content.

We are committed to addressing these limitations and welcome your feedback on how we can improve.

Accessibility Testing

We conduct regular accessibility audits and testing, including:

• Automated accessibility testing with industry-standard tools (axe, Lighthouse)
• Manual testing with keyboard navigation
• Screen reader testing (NVDA, VoiceOver)
• User testing with people with disabilities
• Third-party accessibility audits

Feedback and Assistance

We welcome your feedback on the accessibility of HousingBase. If you encounter accessibility barriers or have suggestions for improvement, please let us know:

Alternative Formats and Assistance

If you need assistance accessing any content or completing any applications on HousingBase, we offer the following alternatives:

• Email Assistance: Our support team can help you search for housing, complete applications, and access information by email at accessibility@housingbase.io or through our contact form
• Print Materials: We can provide printed versions of forms and important information
• Large Print: Documents available in large print format upon request
• Braille: Key documents can be provided in Braille (allow 5-7 business days for processing)
• Audio Format: Forms and documents available in audio format
• In-Person Assistance: Coordinate with local housing authorities for in-person support

Legal and Compliance

HousingBase is committed to complying with applicable accessibility laws and regulations, including but not limited to:

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
• Fair Housing Act accessibility requirements
• State and local accessibility laws

Ongoing Accessibility Efforts

Accessibility is an ongoing commitment. Our efforts include:

• Regular accessibility training for our development team
• Accessibility incorporated into our design and development process
• Continuous monitoring and testing of new features
• Partnerships with disability advocacy organizations
• Annual third-party accessibility audits
• User feedback integration into product improvements

Formal Complaints

If you believe you have been discriminated against based on disability, you have the right to file a formal complaint:

• HUD Fair Housing: File a complaint with HUD
• Department of Justice: ADA Information Line: 1-800-514-0301 (TTY: 1-800-514-0383)

Updates to This Statement

We are constantly working to improve accessibility. This statement will be updated as we make improvements to the platform. Please check back periodically for updates.

This statement was last reviewed and updated on December 24, 2025.