Accessible Canada Act: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Understand how the Accessible Canada Act sets standards for barrier-free access in public buildings and what property managers need to do to comply.
The Accessible Canada Act establishes the national framework and standards required to create barrier-free environments, ensuring that physical spaces are usable by all people.
Who it's for
This scheme is specifically relevant for managers of buildings that contain public-facing common areas. If you are responsible for overseeing residential rental units or commercial spaces where the public or tenants interact in shared areas, these accessibility standards apply to your operations.
What you get
By following these guidelines, you gain a clear set of standards for barrier-free access. These standards provide a framework for how buildings should be managed and structured to ensure that people with various needs can navigate spaces without encountering physical obstacles. This helps maintain a safe environment for all tenants and visitors.
What it costs you
Achieving accessibility compliance involves both time and financial investment. The primary cost comes from the physical retrofitting of your property to meet federal standards. You may need to allocate funds for structural changes, such as:
- Installing ramps to allow for easier entry and exit.
- Modifying doors to ensure they are easy to operate.
- Updating signage to improve navigation within the building.
These physical modifications are necessary to ensure your property meets the legal requirements for barrier-free access.
The catch to know
The most significant risk is overlooking these requirements. Ignoring accessibility standards does not just result in a lack of inclusivity; it can lead to formal human rights complaints being filed against the building or the management company. Staying ahead of these standards is a key part of managing property liability and tenant relations.
How to apply
- Assess your current property to identify common areas that serve the public or tenants.
- Evaluate your existing infrastructure against the standards for barrier-free access.
- Create a plan to address necessary physical updates, such as installing new ramps or signage.
- Complete the necessary retrofitting to ensure your building meets all accessibility compliance requirements.