ADA profile: a multi-tenant office building - includes advice on requirements for compliance with Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 - Architecture & Interior Design

Real Estate Weekly, Dec 16, 1992 by Hal A. Dorfman

In our multi-tenant office building case study the aforementioned accessible barriers and the order of their removal were the result of a complete facility compliance survey. The survey was reviewed by the owners' implementation team who then determined how this facility could maximize its compliance with the American with Disabilities Act Title III knowing its available financial resources and how they could be allocated for barrier removal design changes. The entire process is being documented carefully for use should a legal challenge arise.

To ease the construction permit portion of the ADA process the New York City Department of Buildings is willing to work with building industry groups and architects to create a one sheet application for ADA compliance work that can be filed with drawings by mail for acceptance and issuance of a work permit.

In summary, the compliance process with the American with Disabilities Act is an ongoing requirement. The practicality of this law takes many different forms. Sound judgement, by the architect performing the survey and in the design of any physical changes and the other team members preparing the implementation plan, is what will determine how this law effects the quality of our built environment for all persons. An accessible build ing is not just accessible for persons with disabilities as defined by the law, but for persons of all ages and limitations. Accessibility is good for business.