Whether you’re working with a commercial contractor on new construction or planning a tenant build out, understanding ADA compliance requirements protects you from costly violations and ensures your space serves all customers.

When ADA Applies to Your Commercial Construction Project

If you’re building or significantly renovating a commercial space open to the public, ADA applies. The scope of requirements depends on whether you’re doing new construction or alterations.

New Construction Requirements

New commercial construction must be fully compliant with current ADA standards. There are no grandfathering provisions, no exceptions based on cost, and no phase-in periods. Full compliance is mandatory from day one.

Alteration and Renovation Rules

Alterations must be compliant to the maximum extent feasible. Even minor renovations can trigger accessibility requirements for the path of travel to the altered area. When you improve one area, you may need to improve access routes serving that area.

The 20% Rule for Alterations

If alterations affect usability of or access to an area containing a primary function, the path of travel to that area must be accessible. You must spend up to 20% of the alteration cost on path of travel improvements unless it’s disproportionate.

For detailed ADA requirements, consult the official ADA Standards for Accessible Design.

Key ADA Requirements in Commercial Construction

Accessible Routes: Creating Clear Paths

There must be an accessible path from parking, through the entrance, to all public areas. This includes proper door widths (32″ clear minimum), manageable door-opening force, and appropriate slopes.

Your commercial contractor should plan accessible routes during initial design, not retrofit them later. Accessible routes must have:

• Minimum 36″ clear width (48″ for U-turns)
• Maximum 1:12 slope (5% grade) for ramps
• Firm, stable, slip-resistant surfaces
• Adequate maneuvering clearances at doors
• Compliant handrails where required

Parking Requirements

Accessible parking spaces with proper signage, dimensions, and access aisles are required based on total parking count. Van-accessible spaces have additional requirements.

Restrooms: Non-Negotiable Accessibility

When restrooms are provided, at least one of each type must be fully accessible. This means compliant fixtures, grab bars, turning space, and proper door clearances. Commercial construction projects often underestimate restroom accessibility costs.

Doors and Hardware

All doors on accessible routes must have:

• 32″ minimum clear opening width
• Maximum 5 pounds force to open
• Lever handles or automatic openers (no knobs)
• Proper maneuvering clearances
• Hardware mounted between 34″-48″ above floor

Signage and Communication

Permanent room identification signs must include raised characters and Braille. Directional signs must meet contrast and character height requirements. Your tenant build out should include compliant signage in the initial budget.

Common ADA Violations in Commercial Construction

Certain violations appear repeatedly in commercial construction projects. Knowing these common mistakes helps you avoid them:

Frequent Accessibility Violations

• Insufficient door clearances — Doors need proper maneuvering space on both sides
• Incorrect restroom layouts — Grab bar placement and turning radius often wrong
• Non-compliant parking striping — Width, access aisles, and signage frequently incorrect
• Improper ramp slopes — Exceeding 1:12 slope or missing handrails
• Inaccessible counters and service areas — Heights and reach ranges not compliant
• Missing or incorrect signage — Forgetting Braille or using wrong mounting heights
• Inadequate door hardware — Round knobs instead of levers, or excessive opening force
• Non-compliant drinking fountains — Height, clearances, or lack of accessible models

Restaurant-Specific ADA Issues

Restaurants and food service establishments face additional requirements:

• Accessible routes through dining areas
• Appropriate table spacing and heights
• Accessible food service lines and condiment bars
• Proper seating dispersal throughout venue

Learn more about restaurant compliance in our restaurant construction guide.

Enforcement and Penalties: What’s at Stake

ADA violations aren’t just paperwork problems—they’re federal civil rights violations with serious consequences.

Department of Justice Enforcement

The DOJ can investigate complaints and require corrective action. First-time violations can result in civil penalties up to $75,000. Subsequent violations can reach $150,000 per violation.

Private Lawsuits

Individuals can sue for injunctive relief (forcing you to fix violations) and attorney’s fees. While they can’t collect damages in most cases, you’ll pay their legal costs if you lose. These lawsuits are increasingly common.

The Cost of Retrofitting

Fixing ADA violations after construction is exponentially more expensive than building correctly initially. A commercial contractor experienced in ADA compliance saves money by getting it right the first time.

For information on ADA enforcement, visit the Department of Justice ADA Information page.

Working with Your Commercial Contractor on ADA Compliance

Your commercial contractor should treat ADA compliance as non-negotiable, not optional. Here’s how to ensure compliance throughout your project:

Design Phase Considerations

• Hire architects and contractors experienced in ADA requirements
• Review accessibility plans before finalizing design
• Budget adequately for accessibility features
• Consider accessibility from the start, not as an afterthought
• Request detailed accessibility compliance documentation

Construction Phase Oversight

During commercial construction, verify critical accessibility elements:

• Confirm door clearances before framing is closed
• Verify ramp slopes with proper instruments
• Check parking space dimensions and striping
• Confirm restroom fixture heights and clearances
• Inspect grab bar placement and mounting strength

Final Inspection Checklist

Before opening, conduct a thorough accessibility inspection. Consider hiring an accessibility consultant to review the completed work. Finding violations before you open is far better than discovering them through a lawsuit.

For guidance on choosing experienced contractors, review our article on selecting the right general contractor.

Building Accessibility from the Foundation Up

ADA compliance in commercial construction isn’t just legal requirement—it’s good business. Accessible facilities serve more customers, avoid legal problems, and demonstrate corporate responsibility.

Work with a commercial contractor who understands ADA requirements thoroughly and integrates accessibility into every project phase. The right contractor views compliance not as a burden but as a standard part of professional construction.

Whether you’re planning new construction or a tenant build out, make ADA compliance a priority from day one. Your business, your customers, and your legal risk profile will all benefit from this commitment to accessibility.