KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Why ADA compliance construction Matters – Required by law to avoid fines, lawsuits, and costly retrofits. Creates an inclusive, accessible space for all.
- Essential Requirements:
- Entrances & Exits – At least one wheelchair-accessible entrance with ramps if needed. Emergency exits must also be compliant.
- Parking & Pathways – Designated accessible parking with smooth, unobstructed routes to the building.
- Interior Accessibility – Wide doorways, clear walkways, and accessible service counters.
- Restrooms – At least one wheelchair-accessible stall with compliant sinks and easy-to-open doors.
- Elevators – Required for multi-story buildings unless under 3,000 sq. ft. per floor.
- The Cost of Non-Compliance – Fines, legal issues, and expensive retrofits. Accessibility improves customer experience and business reach.
ADA Compliance Construction: What Businesses Need to Know
If you’re planning to build a new commercial property, there’s a lot to consider — design, budget, materials, permits, and ensuring that your building is accessible to everyone. That’s where ADA compliance construction comes in. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets standards to make sure that people with disabilities can access and navigate commercial buildings just like everyone else.
Ignoring ADA requirements isn’t just a legal risk — it’s a missed opportunity to create an inclusive space where everyone, from customers to employees, feels welcome. Let’s break down what you need to know about ADA compliance construction and how to make sure you’re doing it right.
Why ADA Compliance Matters in New Construction
When it comes to commercial construction, ADA compliance isn’t optional — it’s required by law. The last thing you want is to finish a brand-new building, only to find out it doesn’t meet accessibility requirements. That could mean costly retrofits, legal headaches, and even fines.
Beyond legal reasons, accessibility simply makes sense. Why limit your business by creating barriers for potential customers or employees? Ensuring ADA compliance from the start means your building is welcoming to everyone, which is good for business and the community.
Key ADA Requirements for New Commercial Buildings
If you’re in the early stages of construction planning, here are some key ADA requirements to keep in mind:
1). Accessible Entrances and Exits
Your building must have at least one accessible entrance that wheelchair users can use. That means:
- No steps or high thresholds
- Ramps with proper slopes if needed
- Automatic or easy-to-open doors
- Even if the main entrance is compliant, emergency exits also need to be accessible.
2). Parking and Pathways
If your commercial property has parking, you’re required to have designated accessible spaces. This includes:
- Van-accessible spots with extra width
- Clearly marked, smooth pathways to the building entrance
- No curbs blocking the way
- Simply painting a wheelchair symbol on a parking spot isn’t enough—there are strict dimensions and signage requirements that must be followed.
3). Interior Accessibility
Once inside, the building should be easy to navigate for people with mobility impairments, visual impairments, and other disabilities. That means:
- Wide doorways and hallways (at least 32 inches wide for doors, 36 inches for hallways)
- No tight corners or obstacles in walkways
- Accessible counters, service desks, and check-out areas
- If someone in a wheelchair cannot comfortably move through your building, it is not ADA-compliant
4). Restrooms That Everyone Can Use
Restrooms are one of the most common places where businesses fail when it comes to ADA compliance construction. To get it right, make sure:
- At least one stall is wheelchair accessible
- Sinks and hand dryers are at an accessible height
- Doors are easy to open with minimal force
- A little extra planning now can save you from costly fixes later
5). Elevators and Multi-Level Access
If your building has multiple floors, an elevator is required unless the space is under 3,000 square feet per floor, in which case exemptions may apply. Even in smaller buildings, it is a good idea to plan for future accessibility needs.
The Cost of Non-Compliance
If you don’t follow ADA guidelines, you could face fines, lawsuits, and mandatory renovations. Fixing accessibility issues after a building is finished costs significantly more than doing it correctly from the start.
ADA compliance construction isn’t just about following regulations — it’s about building a space where everyone can comfortably work, shop, and do business.
Need Help Navigating ADA Compliance Construction? Let Us Help!
At Hammers Construction, we don’t just build commercial properties — we make sure they meet every requirement, including ADA compliance. Our team understands the ins and outs of accessibility regulations and can help you design a building that is functional, modern, and welcoming to all.
Thinking about starting a new project? Contact Hammers Construction today, and let’s build something great (and ADA-compliant)!