Apartment Property ADA Accessibility Compliance Self-Audit Checklist

This apartment property ADA accessibility compliance self-audit checklist provides a structured annual evaluation of accessibility compliance for multi-family residential communities. Accessibility compliance in residential properties involves two overlapping frameworks: ADA Title III (public accommodations - applicable to leasing offices and common areas) and the Fair Housing Act's design and construction requirements (applicable to covered multifamily housing built after March 13, 1991). Non-c

  • Industry: Property Management
  • Frequency: Annually
  • Estimated Time: 2-4 hours
  • Role: Property Manager / ADA Compliance Consultant
  • Total Items: 28
  • Compliance: ADA Standards for Accessible Design (28 CFR Part 36), Fair Housing Act Design and Construction Requirements (24 CFR Part 100), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (HUD-assisted properties), ANSI A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, ICC A117.1 Accessibility Standard

Accessible Parking

Verify accessible parking meets ADA and FHA requirements.

  • Required number of accessible spaces provided (1 per 25 total spaces, minimum)?
  • At least 1 van-accessible space (11-foot width + 5-foot aisle OR 8-foot + 8-foot aisle)?
  • ADA signs with International Symbol of Accessibility on post (not painted only)?
  • Accessible space surface stable, firm, and slip-resistant?
  • Space and access aisle slope not exceeding 1:48 (2%) in any direction?
  • Accessible route from parking to building entrance without curb barriers?

Accessible Routes and Entrances

Verify accessible routes throughout the property.

  • Continuous accessible route from public sidewalk through building to all common areas?
  • Accessible route minimum 36 inches wide throughout (44 inches preferred)?
  • Primary accessible entrance door hardware operable with closed fist (lever, not knob)?
  • Interior doors operable with no more than 5 lbs force (exterior doors exempt per ADA)?
  • All curb ramps have compliant slope (max 1:12), width (min 36 inches), and detectable warnings?

Common Area Accessibility

Evaluate common area ADA compliance.

  • Leasing office fully accessible (parking, route, door, counter, restroom)?
  • At least some mailboxes within accessible reach range (15-48 inches AFF)?
  • Common area restrooms accessible (turning radius, grab bars, door hardware, fixtures)?
  • Amenity areas accessible (pool, fitness, clubhouse routes, at least some seating and equipment)?
  • Permanent room identification signs have Braille and raised characters?

Accessible and Adaptable Units (FHA D&C)

Evaluate FHA Design and Construction requirements for covered units.

  • All ground floor units (and elevator-served units) on accessible route?
  • All covered units have accessible entry door (32-inch clear width minimum)?
  • All interior doors in covered units provide 32-inch clear passage?
  • Bathroom walls reinforced for future grab bar installation in covered units?
  • All accessible features in designated accessible units currently functional?

Documentation and Remediation

Document audit findings and plan remediation.

  • Accessibility barrier log maintained with remediation plan and timeline?
  • ADA transition plan in place for properties with barrier removal obligations?
  • Certified ADA accessibility consultant used for comprehensive evaluation?
  • All resident modification requests tracked and modifications documented?
  • ADA audit report filed in property compliance records?
  • Website accessibility tested with automated tool (WAVE, Axe) for WCAG 2.1 compliance?
  • Reasonable accommodation response time within 10 days per HUD guidance?

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Why Use This Apartment Property ADA Accessibility Compliance Self-Audit Checklist?

This apartment property ada accessibility compliance self-audit checklist helps property management teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for property manager / ada compliance consultant professionals, this checklist covers 28 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: annually.

Ensures compliance with ADA Standards for Accessible Design (28 CFR Part 36), Fair Housing Act Design and Construction Requirements (24 CFR Part 100), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (HUD-assisted properties), ANSI A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, ICC A117.1 Accessibility Standard, ADA Title II (state and local government housing programs), UK Equality Act 2010 Part M Building Regulations, Australia AS 1428.1 Design for Access and Mobility. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Apartment Property ADA Accessibility Compliance Self-Audit Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 28 inspection items across 5 sections: Accessible Parking, Accessible Routes and Entrances, Common Area Accessibility, Accessible and Adaptable Units (FHA D&C), Documentation and Remediation. It is designed for property management operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed annually. Each completion takes approximately 2-4 hours.

Who should use this Apartment Property ADA Accessibility Compliance Self-Audit Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Property Manager / ADA Compliance Consultant professionals in the property management industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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