Commercial Construction & ADA Compliance

Are you a commercial property owner or facility manager planning a new construction project, renovating an existing building, or looking for ways to improve accessibility?

Creating an accessible commercial property is about more than meeting building requirements. It helps ensure that employees, customers, visitors, and community members can enter, move through, and use your facility with greater independence and dignity.

For aging-in-place organizations and community partners, accessible facilities can also support older adults and people with mobility challenges as they participate in programs, access services, and remain connected to their communities.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) establishes accessibility requirements for many commercial facilities and public accommodations. Depending on your building, project type, and applicable standards, these requirements may affect entrances, doorways, restrooms, parking, and routes throughout your property.

If you are in Rochester, NY, or the surrounding areas, Liv Home Pros can help you explore accessibility improvements such as commercial ramps, vertical platform lifts, grab bars, and other mobility solutions.

In this guide, we will explain important commercial accessibility considerations and what property owners and facility managers should know before planning an improvement project.

 

What is ADA Compliance?

The Americans with Disabilities Act is a federal civil rights law that helps protect people with disabilities from discrimination. Title III of the ADA addresses accessibility in places of public accommodation and commercial facilities.

For commercial property owners and facility managers, ADA compliance means understanding how accessibility requirements apply to the building, the services provided, and any construction or renovation work being planned.

Accessibility considerations may include:

• Entrances and accessible routes into the building
• Doorways and interior circulation
• Restrooms and accessible fixtures
• Parking and routes from parking areas
• Service counters and other areas used by customers or visitors
• Ramps, lifts, and other ways to overcome changes in level

The requirements that apply depend on factors such as the type of facility, when it was constructed, whether it is undergoing alterations, and which accessibility standards and exceptions apply.

 

New Construction, Renovations, and Existing Buildings

New construction and alterations generally have specific accessibility requirements that should be considered during the planning and design process.

Existing buildings may have different obligations, including requirements related to removing barriers when readily achievable. When renovations or alterations are planned, additional accessibility requirements may apply to the affected areas and related paths of travel.

Because every property is different, it is important to review your project with qualified design and code professionals who can determine which requirements apply.

For commercial property owners and facility managers, the goal is to identify accessibility needs early, plan appropriate improvements, and create spaces that are easier for people with disabilities to use.

 

Who Does the ADA Protect?

The ADA protects people with disabilities, including individuals with physical or mental impairments that substantially limit one or more major life activities.

It also protects certain individuals who have a record of an impairment or who are regarded as having an impairment.

In a commercial or community facility, this can include people who use wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility devices, as well as people who may need accessible routes, doors, restrooms, and other features to use the building.

There are three categories of individuals with disabilities:

1. Individuals who have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities
2. Individuals who have a record of a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the individual’s major life activities
3. Individuals who are regarded as having an impairment that is not minor and transitory, whether they have the impairment or not, and are the subject of adverse action because of that perceived impairment

Important: ADA requirements are not the same as every accessibility or aging-in-place recommendation. A facility may benefit from additional improvements that go beyond the minimum legal requirements.

 

How to Make Your Commercial Property ADA Compliant

Accessibility should be considered throughout the entire commercial property, from the parking lot and building entrance to interior spaces, restrooms, and service areas.

For property owners and facility managers, a practical approach is to identify barriers, understand the needs of the people using the facility, and prioritize improvements based on the building’s requirements, available space, and project goals.

The following areas are important to consider when planning commercial accessibility improvements. Visit the U.S. Access Board website to view the complete guide and ADA regulations.

 

Doorways and Desks

Accessible entrances and doorways help people enter and move through a commercial building with greater independence.

When planning accessibility improvements, consider:

• Accessible entrances: If the main entrance is not accessible, an accessible alternative may be required depending on the building and applicable standards.
• Doorway clearance: Doorways must provide the required clear opening for people using wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
• Door hardware: Handles and other operating mechanisms should be accessible to people with limited hand strength or dexterity.
• Accessible routes: Hallways and interior routes should provide the required clearances and allow people to move between important areas of the building.
• Reception and service counters: Businesses and community facilities should consider accessible service areas where customers, visitors, or program participants receive assistance.
• Changes in level: Steps, raised thresholds, and other barriers should be reviewed when planning an accessible route.

For facility managers, the best solution will depend on the existing layout, the type of facility, and the accessibility needs of the people using the building.

 

Parking Lots and Exterior Access

Accessibility begins before someone enters the building. For commercial property owners and facility managers, the route from the parking lot to the building entrance is an important part of the overall accessibility experience.

When reviewing exterior access, consider the following:

Accessible parking

Commercial properties may need designated accessible parking spaces based on the size and type of parking facility. The required number, dimensions, signage, and access aisles depend on applicable accessibility standards.

Accessible route to the entrance

An accessible route should connect accessible parking spaces with the accessible building entrance. The route should be reviewed for steps, curbs, uneven surfaces, steep slopes, and other barriers.

Building entrances

If an entrance includes stairs or another change in level, an accessible alternative may be needed. Depending on the site, a ramp, vertical platform lift, or another appropriate solution may be considered.

Exterior surfaces

Walkways, ramps, and other paths should be stable, firm, and slip-resistant, with appropriate drainage and maintenance.

Ongoing maintenance

Accessibility can be affected by cracked pavement, snow and ice, blocked routes, damaged handrails, or other changes over time. Regular inspection and maintenance help keep accessible routes usable.

If your facility has an entrance that is difficult for people using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility devices to access, Liv Home Pros can help you explore appropriate accessibility solutions.

 

Commercial Restrooms and Bathroom Accessibility

Restrooms are an important part of accessibility in commercial and community facilities. A restroom that is difficult to enter, navigate, or use can create challenges for older adults, people with disabilities, and anyone with limited mobility.

When reviewing commercial restroom accessibility, consider:

• Accessible restroom entrance: The entrance should provide the required clearances and allow people using mobility devices to enter.
• Accessible toilet: Toilet height, clear floor space, and positioning should meet applicable accessibility requirements.
• Grab bars: Grab bars should be installed in the appropriate locations and at the required heights for the applicable restroom configuration.
• Sink and faucet access: Sinks, faucets, and other fixtures should be usable by people with disabilities and provide the required clear floor space.
• Turning and maneuvering space: The restroom should provide the required space for people using wheelchairs or other mobility devices to move and transfer.
• Accessories: Soap dispensers, paper towel dispensers, mirrors, and other accessories should be positioned so they can be reached and used.

For older commercial buildings, restroom accessibility may require more than installing grab bars. The layout, plumbing, clearances, and available space should be reviewed before selecting a solution.

Liv Home Pros provides accessibility products and installation services that can support commercial restroom improvements, including grab bars and other mobility solutions.

 

Wheelchair Ramps, Vertical Platform Lifts, and Accessible Routes

Changes in level can make it difficult or impossible for some people to enter or move through a commercial building.

For property owners and facility managers, choosing the right accessibility solution depends on the height of the barrier, available space, the building layout, and applicable accessibility requirements.

Commercial Wheelchair Ramps

A commercial ramp may be an appropriate solution where there is enough space to create an accessible route.

When planning a ramp, consider:

• The height of the entrance or other change in level
• The required slope and ramp length
• Available landing space
• Handrails and edge protection where required
• Surface materials and drainage
• The route from the parking lot or sidewalk to the entrance

A ramp should be designed and installed according to applicable accessibility standards and local building requirements.

Vertical Platform Lifts

A vertical platform lift may be an option when a ramp is impractical because of space limitations or the building’s layout.

Vertical platform lifts can help people using wheelchairs and other mobility devices overcome changes in level. The appropriate equipment and installation requirements depend on the project.

How to Choose the Right Solution

Before selecting a ramp or lift, a property owner or facility manager should consider:

1. Where is the accessibility barrier?
2. How much vertical height needs to be overcome?
3. Is there enough room for a ramp?
4. Where will the accessible route begin and end?
5. What permits, design requirements, and safety standards apply?

Liv Home Pros helps commercial property owners and facility managers explore accessibility solutions such as commercial ramps and vertical platform lifts in Rochester, NY, and surrounding areas.

Our team can help you understand the available options and coordinate the appropriate installation for your project.

 

Planning Accessibility Improvements for Your Facility

Whether you manage an office, community facility, or other commercial property, accessibility improvements should begin with a clear understanding of the people who use the building and the barriers they may encounter.

Here are several practical considerations for planning an accessibility project.

1. Identify the barriers

Walk through the property and consider the complete visitor experience, from parking and entrances to hallways, restrooms, and service areas.

2. Understand the needs of the people using the facility

Consider older adults, people who use wheelchairs or walkers, individuals with limited mobility, and others who may need accessible features.

For aging-in-place organizations and community partners, this can be especially important when facilities support older adults and people with disabilities.

3. Prioritize the most important improvements

Some improvements may be needed to address a major barrier to entering or using the facility. Others may improve comfort, convenience, and independence.

Priorities should be based on the building’s requirements, the people served, and the available project budget.

4. Review the building and applicable requirements

Before beginning construction or installation, review the building layout, applicable accessibility standards, local building requirements, and any necessary permits with qualified professionals.

5. Choose the right accessibility solution

A ramp, vertical platform lift, grab bar, handrail, or other modification may be appropriate depending on the property and the barrier being addressed.

6. Plan for long-term usability

Accessibility improvements should be considered as part of ongoing facility maintenance. Regular inspections and timely repairs help keep routes and equipment usable.

A well-planned accessibility project can help commercial and community facilities become more welcoming and easier to use for the people they serve.

 

Creating More Accessible Spaces for Your Community?

Commercial property owners and facility managers have an important role in creating spaces that are easier for people to access and use.

Whether you manage an office, community facility, or another commercial property, Liv Home Pros can help you explore accessibility improvements that support the people who use your space.

Our services include:

• Commercial wheelchair ramps
• Vertical platform lifts
• Grab bars
• Handrails
• Other accessibility and mobility solutions

We work with property owners, facility managers, and community partners in Rochester, NY, and surrounding areas.

If your facility has an accessibility barrier or you are planning an improvement project, contact Liv Home Pros to discuss your needs and explore the right solution for your property.

Call 585-203-9200 or visit our Contact Us page to get started.

Let’s work together to create more accessible spaces for the people you serve.