The “Americans with Disabilities Act” (ADA) gives civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities that are like those provided to individuals on the basis of race, sex, national origin, and religion.
The Florida Building Code addresses the accessibility portion of the ADA (the way bathrooms, showers, doorways, handicap ramps and the like) for multifamily homes and commercial buildings. The code does not however address nor is it required to be complied with for single family detached structures.
Many people that live in their homes either have injuries, ailments or disabilities that require better accessibility to the required facilities in their homes. The is another relatively new concept called “Visitability” which addresses people visiting homes that have any type of disability and their ability to access the home as well as use the facilities while visiting.
“Aging in place” is another significant concern for many of the older generation that has no intention of moving from their homes as they age.
JAI has extensive experience in addressing these issues, both through personal experience as well as through education. We have remodeled and converted several homes or areas within homes to adapt them to the needs of the residents. No one wants to admit that they will ever get old or ever need assistance until they do. It’s a fact of life and we will all have to face it sooner or later. The sooner you plan for it the better you will be prepared when you need it.
Please contact us for more details and guidance regarding any ADA issues and how to deal with them.