Even when you find a commercial property to lead in a decent environment and at the best price, you don’t jump right into signing the lease. There’s an important step that most business owners skip and that’s bringing in an ADA-certified inspector.
Now, you may be thinking that if the place looks good, why is hiring an ADA inspector for your business a big deal? Well, when it comes to accessibility, many things remain unseen to untrained eyes.
In this article, we’ll explain why hiring an ADA-certified inspector before leasing a commercial property is the best decision you can make.
If your business is open to the public like a shop, medical office or cafe, it has to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). That means things like:
Skipping this step may mean that you or the tenant can face expensive renovations and even possible legal actions if someone files a complaint or lawsuits.
Inspectors are trained to spot the things that most people overlook. Here are some things an inspector does:
They practically carry out a full accessibility audit and it gives you a realistic idea of what you’re walking into.
Hiring an ADA inspector before you lease gives you leverage to implement changes if you’re not satisfied with the condition of the property. For instance, if the inspector finds out the restroom doesn’t meet ADA standards, or the entrance needs a ramp, you can go back to the landlord and ask for a renovation or renegotiate the lease before you move in.
That’s a lot better than discovering these issues after you’ve signed and realizing you have no choice than to pay the bill. Also, knowing your space is accessible from the start means a better experience for all your customers.
Not all inspectors have the same training, so you need a little time to find the right one. You should look out for:
Also, you should ask upfront about pricing and turnaround time, many inspectors can do this quickly, especially if it’s a small space.
Leasing a new space is great but you must also prioritize ADA compliance. Bringing in a certified inspector before signing the lease could save you thousands and a whole lot of headaches.
Think of it like a home inspection for your business. You’d never buy a house without one, right? This is no different.
So before you sign that deal, make sure your future space is accessible for everyone.
Protect your investment! Learn why hiring an ADA-certified inspector before leasing a commercial property is crucial for avoiding costly compliance issues.
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