The URA requires that comparable decent, safe, and sanitary replacement (DSS) housing within a person's financial means be made available before that person may be displaced. When such housing cannot be provided by using replacement housing payments, the URA provides for "housing of last resort." Housing of last resort may involve the use of replacement housing payments that exceed the URA maximum amounts. Housing of last resort may also involve the use of other methods of providing comparable decent, safe, and sanitary housing within a person's financial means.

Agencies have broad flexibility in the use of housing of last resort. It is intended to enable agencies to respond to difficult or special displacements, but it should not be used as a substitute for lack of time or lack of relocation advisory services.

Remember that it is crucial to identify potential housing of last resort situations early so that they may be addressed in a proper manner.

Where can you go to find more information on housing of last resort?

You should consult 49 CFR 24.404 and Chapter 3 of HUD Handbook 1378 for more guidance.