The Difference Between ADA Residential Dwelling Units and FHA Covered Units
The term “residential dwelling unit” is found in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the term “covered unit” is found in the Fair Housing Act (FHA). Both terms are referring to the same type of dwelling unit but built under different circumstances.
2010 ADA Standards
The 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, Section 106.5, defines a residential dwelling unit as “A [dwelling] unit intended to be used as a residence, that is primarily long-term in nature. Residential dwelling units do not include transient lodging, inpatient medical care, licensed long-term care, and detention or correctional facilities.” So this definition can apply to condominiums and apartments because they can be found in Title II and Title III facilities, which is covered by the ADA. This definition does not apply to single family homes because they are not found in Title II or Title III facilities.
FHA Design Manual