Blog:

California's accessibility laws are known for being more vigorous than the federal ADA requirements. Not only do they often exceed these standards, but they are also enforced rigorously by state agencies. This means that any public accommodation or commercial facility must adhere to a set of regulations that sometimes surpass the national norms, demanding more intricate structural insights and adaptations.

The stakes for non-compliance with California accessibility laws are high. Unlike the broader federal ADA, California law, including the Unruh Civil Rights Act and the Disabled Persons Act, allows individuals to sue for statutory minimum damages for access violations. This can mean significantly more financial penalties for businesses short of state-specific requirements. Many companies may believe they are ADA Compliant but are unaware of the California Accessibility violations that still expose their business to risk.

Adhering to the more stringent California accessibility standards serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it pushes businesses towards creating a truly inclusive environment following the trends of regulations. Secondly, and crucially, it mitigates the risk of litigation, which can be frequent and severe under California’s proactive legal climate for disability rights. Compliance is not just about following the basics of the law but also being proactive and protecting your business from regulations just around the corner.

The decision to employ a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) alongside a skilled ADA construction firm isn't just about meeting legal obligations—it's about proactive protection from potential violations that could lead to costly consequences. Ensure your business is compliant and exemplary in accessibility by investing in expert oversight and quality construction modifications guided by both California and federal requirements.