Housing Requests

Guidelines for Housing Requests Based On Medical, Psychological, or Disability Related Needs

Disability-related housing accommodations provide WWU students access to an inclusive on-campus living experience. Students who require these accommodations should make a request for accommodations on Accommodate and submit a completed Housing Documentation Form (from a medical health care provider) to support their request and specify their disability-related needs. This form can be emailed to dss@wallawalla.edu or faxed to (509) 527-2090.

Approval of housing accommodations is assessed on an individual basis, taking into consideration the nature of the disability or health condition and the reasonableness of the request. Disability Support Services collaborates with the Office of Housing Services and Residence Life to provide suitable accommodations that meet the specific needs of each student. 

Once housing accommodations are approved, Disability Support Services will work with the Office of Housing Services and Residential Life to assign a room that reasonably accommodates the student. However, it is important to note that specific placement in a particular residence hall or room cannot be guaranteed as part of the accommodation. 

Requests for single rooms are not granted solely based on the need for a quiet study environment. Residence halls are designed as communal living spaces, and students seeking a quiet study area should explore other designated locations on campus. 

How to Request Housing Accommodations

1. Indicate your need for accommodations
   1. On your WWU Housing Application, check the box for disability-related accommodations
2. Submit your request through Accommodate
   1. For new students, submit an initial request for accommodations. Returning students should submit a supplemental request.
3. Provide documentation
   1. Have a qualified healthcare provider complete the Housing Documentation Form.
   2. Submit the form via:
      1. emailing dss@wallawalla.edu
      2. fax it to (509) 527-2090
4. Schedule a meeting with DSS
   1. Email dss@wallawalla.edu to request an appointment time.

Request Timeline & Deadlines

WWU accepts requests at any time, but:

• Submit as early as possible to ensure your accommodation is in place by move-in.
• Requests made less than 60 days before move-in may not be guaranteed.
• Already living on campus? Submit your requests for accommodation as soon as possible for the upcoming quarter.
• Response time: Once your request and documentation are complete, DSS aims to respond within 14 business days.

Quarterly Deadlines

To maximize availability and planning, submit your request and documentation by:

• Fall: June 15
• Winter: October 15
• Spring: January 15
• Summer: April 15

For students already receiving housing accommodations, confirm your existing accommodations for next school year by April 15 via Accommodate. Late requests may result in delays or limited options. Students wishing to request new accommodations or make changes to their current accommodations will need to provide updated documentation of their disability and the need for the change. After submitting the documentation, students will be asked to schedule an appointment with the Disabilities Support Services staff to discuss their needs.

To ensure appropriate accommodations are available, new students must contact Disability Support Services by June 15 for Fall Quarter housing requests. Failure to meet these deadlines may significantly limit Disability Support Services' ability to respond to accommodation requests. 

Request Limits & Criteria

WWU may deny or modify a housing request if:

• It creates a significant financial or administrative burden.
• It fundamentally alters housing policies.
• It poses a direct threat to others’ safety, health, or property.
• It lacks a clear connection to a disability-related housing barrier.

DSS may ask for additional documentation if your disability or request is not readily apparent.

Important Notes

Housing accommodations are reviewed individually based on your documentation and needs.

Specific room or building placements are not guaranteed.

Requests for single rooms will not be approved only for quiet study needs.

Once approved, DSS works with Housing and Residential Life to assign a suitable room.

Missed the Deadline?

If your request or documentation is late, DSS may not be able to fulfill the request in time for the desired quarter. Accommodations will still be reviewed and implemented as soon as possible. 

Questions?

If there are any questions regarding documentation, please contact the Assistant Director for Disability Support Services at dss@wallawalla.edu or 509 527-2313. 

For more information on housing exemption requests, please view the WWU Residential Life & Housing Policy.