By Robert R. Stout, P.E., PLS, Stout & Caldwell Engineers
ADA compliance in commercial real estate, particularly for existing building exteriors, is gaining renewed attention. Here we explore the "Who, What, Where, When, Why and How" to ensure accordance with the established guidelines, emphasizing the significance, responsible parties, applicable structures, determination methods and initiation timing.
Why? Importance of ADA Compliance: Beyond legal obligations, ADA compliance promotes equality, ensuring individuals with disabilities have equal access and opportunities in virtually all aspects of real estate – employment, shopping, travel, and entertainment.
Who? Responsible Parties: Private entities owning, leasing or operating public accommodations bear the responsibility for ADA compliance. This includes both landlords and tenants of businesses open to the public.
What? Designated Public Accommodations: The ADA clearly identifies those categories of public accommodations that require compliance from lodging, food establishments and entertainment venues to retail stores, service providers, transportation terminals and more.
How? Determining Exterior Compliance: A professional survey, guided by a well-defined checklist, focuses on exterior elements such as drop-off points, sidewalks, parking lots, entrances and slopes. Measurement confirmation, signage assessment and route accessibility are crucial.
Where? Onsite Reviews: The ADA Checklist offers detailed guidance for onsite compliance reviews, covering routes of travel, ramps, parking areas and entrances. Specific questions address width, detectability, slope ratios, railing requirements, non-slip surfaces, and parking space configurations.
When? Getting Started: Initiating an ADA compliance survey is vital when altering the building exterior but should also be considered by new owners and tenants. This allows for the prompt action necessary to address concerns or complaints within ADA guidelines. Seeking guidance from an experienced civil engineering firm like Stout & Caldwell Engineers ensures a comprehensive understanding of compliance requirements.
In closing… ADA compliance is an ongoing commitment fostering inclusivity and accessibility in the built environment. Addressing the "Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How" of ADA compliance for existing building exteriors empowers stakeholders to create spaces catering to the diverse needs of all individuals.
Robert R. Stout, P.E., PLS is managing member of Stout & Caldwell Engineers, LLC.