Hotels are meant to serve everyone, including those who have disabilities. In the United States, hotels must ensure they’re compliant with the requirements set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Just about every area of the hotel is subject to specific ADA regulations. Understanding a few of the basics is a good starting point.
1. Simplify reservations
The reservation process for rooms that have ADA features, such as roll-in showers, visual fire alarms and wider doorways, must be just as simple as the process for any other rooms. The ADA-compliant rooms can’t come at a higher rental rate than a comparable standard room.
2. Limit barriers
Another issue that can lead to claims of non-compliance with ADA regulations is limited access. Public spaces must be easy for someone in a wheelchair or with other disabilities to access. If the hotel has a pool or spa, those must also be accessible through sloped entries or pool lifts.
3. Train employees
Service animals are another ADA area that can lead to significant issues. A valid service area can’t lead to any additional costs for the guests, and they can’t be turned away because of a service animal. Under the ADA, only specific animals including dogs qualify as service animals. Emotional support, comfort and therapy animals aren’t covered under these ADA regulations.
Continued compliance with the ADA regulations can be challenging because the requirements may change. Having someone on your side who can help to ensure your hotel is compliant is beneficial. That individual should be able to stay abreast of the regulations as they apply to your business, and they should be ready to fight back if claims against non-compliance are made.