Common Misconceptions About ADA and Fair Housing Accessibility Laws
There are many popular misconceptions about the ADA Act and building ADA-compliant homes and buildings. Let’s have a look at some of them and see what’s true.
Misconception 1: ADA-Compliant Construction Requires Extra Money and Effort
Many people believe that ADA-compliant construction will require extra money and effort. However, this is not true. The ADA requires homeowners and businesses to make their premises accessible to people with disabilities. This includes providing wheelchair ramps or elevators, installing automatic doors, or widening aisles for wheelchairs.
In most cases, the only alterations you'll need to make are those that make sense for your business and aren't too hard on your budget or time constraints.
Misconception 2: ADA Requires You to Change Entire Place
Some people may think that the ADA requires them to overhaul their house or commercial space and redo it entirely. The truth is that it doesn't.
The requirement is not that your commercial space be entirely handicapped accessible. It simply means that you have to make reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities. And it's these accommodations that the ADA-compliant contractor is investing in when you hire them.
In most cases, the changes are minimal and can be reversed if you decide they aren't working out for you.
Misconception 3: ADA-Compliant Contractors Don't Know About Modern Design
People think that ADA-compliant contractors don't know about the latest trends in housing or building. However, this is far from the truth.
If you're hiring an ADA contractor, don't assume that they aren't aware about what general contractors do. In fact, your ADA contractor will be an expert at coming up with solutions for building ADA-compliant structures, while at the same time making sure that your house is up to the latest standards.
However, make things clear with your contractor about what you want and how you envision the space.
Misconception 4: ADA-Compliant Contractors Are Hard to Find
Over the years, most private contractors have started offering ADA compliance. They are no different from a general contractor, but are just aware and experienced in building homes and spaces according to ADA guidelines. Do some research on the typical types of disabilities you'll likely meet at your commercial space, and then look for a contractor accordingly.
The Bottom line
The bottom line is that you need to know more about how the ADA works and what you can expect from your contractor. The more knowledge you have going into the process, the easier it will be for both of you to work together toward a successful outcome – one that won't end up costing you a ton in unnecessary costs.
If you are looking for contractors that can help you with remodeling your house to improve accessibility for the elderly and people with disabilities, we are here to help. At Access Built, we help clients get their houses remodeled or modified according to their needs. We're an ADA-compliant contractor serving in Miami and have been offering handicap remodeling, home modification, and many other services. You can reach out to us to find out more.
Access Built is a universal design build platform dedicated to connecting residential and commercial property owners with resources they need to create more accessible spaces. For more information or to schedule your FREE consultation, click here.
