How often have you heard the saying “They don’t build ‘em like they used to” about vehicles, appliances and old buildings? It’s true that some older goods were built to last, but when it comes to old wiring and plumbing, many times newer is better.
If you begin a remodeling job to bring a commercial building up to code, do you also have to make sure it meets ADA requirements?
Valuation threshold
The California Division of the State Architect (DSA) sets a specific monetary benchmark that is used to determine how much of the project budget needs to be allocated toward making the building accessible. The valuation threshold is currently $203,611. If the renovation budget exceeds that amount, the 20% rule applies, meaning that 20% of the project’s cost must be spent on accessibility improvements.
There is a specific order in which the 20% should be applied, based on priority:
- Accessible entrances, such as ramps and doorways
- Accessible routes, i.e. hallways
- Accessible restrooms
- Accessible public telephones (if applicable)
- Accessible drinking fountains (if applicable)
- Elements such as signage or seating
However, if certain elements, such as structural limitations, make full compliance technically infeasible, the contractor needs to take alternative measures in an attempt to improve accessibility as much as possible. In addition to structural limitations, there are other challenges when it comes to improving accessibility in older buildings, such as preserving the historic integrity of the building and the expense.
Any business that fails to follow the ADA accessibility regulations could face fines of up to $75,000 for one violation and $150,000 for additional violations. This is in addition to any penalties set forth by California.