What does "accessibility" mean for home design?

DEFINITION OF “ACCESSIBILITY”

The term “accessible” generally means that a space is easily accessed and used by those with disabilities.

Conversationally, “accessibility” is commonly used to refer to accommodations for wheelchair-users. However, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) covers a wide range of disabilities beyond mobility including stamina, sight, hearing, and speech.

The ADA Standards for Accessible Design, together with any state and local regulations that exceed those requirements, serve as the basis for enforceable standards that apply to places of public accommodation, commercial facilities, and state and local government facilities.

However, there is no federal requirement for compliance with the ADA Standards for Accessible Design in private, single family homes.

“ACCESSIBILITY” FOR HOME DESIGN

When a home is described as “accessible,” it means that it has been designed or modified for “accessibility” to the degree that the homeowner personally requires or desires. It does not mean that the home fully complies with the ADA Standards for Accessible Design.

HOW ARE NEST HOME PLANS “ACCESSIBLE”?

Click here to read about the accessibility features that are included in our home plans.

photo ©Kathryn Barnard