New Construction & Renovation

The rules get much stricter when you build something new or fix up something old.A. New Construction (Post-1991) Any non-residential building built and first occupied after January 26, 1993, must be fully accessible from the start.There is no "readily achievable" excuse here. It must be built right.Requirements: ADA-compliant restrooms, wide hallways, elevators (in most multi-story buildings), and accessible parking.B. Renovations and AlterationsIf you renovate a commercial space (e.g., turning an old warehouse into a hip new office), the renovated area must be made accessible to the maximum extent feasible.The "Path of Travel" Rule: If you do a major renovation to a "primary function area" (like the lobby or the main bank teller area), you must also spend a portion of your budget to ensure the path of travel (entrance, restrooms, water fountains) serving that area is accessible. When you open your own real estate firm one day, check the ADA compliance. Can a client in a wheelchair get through your front door? Can they use your restroom? If not, you are a walking lawsuit target.