If you own or manage an apartment building, you know that appealing to the widest variety of renters is the best way to keep your apartments filled with people and your profits high. Creating a space that is handicap accessible can help broaden your customer base and ensure you are keeping an apartment building up to legal standards.
But it doesn’t just affect your bottom line; it’s also the law. Thanks to the Fair Housing Act, landlords can’t discriminate against someone because of a disability. Of course, no one wants to end up in legal trouble. With all of this in mind, it just makes sense to make your apartment more handicap accessible. Check out seven ways that you can do just that.
1. Choose Wheelchair-Friendly Flooring Materials
One of the first places you can start is your flooring. Make sure whatever material you use is smooth enough for a wheelchair to roll over. That typically means avoiding rugs and carpeting. Vinyl and laminate flooring are good options. Vinyl is especially durable and can handle the wear and tear a wheelchair might bring.
2. Make Sure All Multilevel Areas Have Ramp Access
Consider adding ramps anywhere you have stairs or multilevel access areas, even if it’s just a single step up. This can help renters in wheelchairs, those who use walkers, and even people who just have poor mobility. Some municipalities may have specific laws in place about ramps, so always make sure you check those before you install one to ensure you’re compliant. You’ll also want to make sure the ramp is high-quality and durable.
3. Install Handicap-Friendly Bathroom Fixtures
Bathrooms can be especially tricky for someone who has a disability, but luckily, there are many ways you can make them more accessible. Handicap-friendly toilets are available, and you can consider adding sinks and vanities that are lower to the ground.
A walk-in shower or bathtub that is level with the bathroom floor is also a nice option for people with limited mobility. Consider extra features like a shower seat, grab bars, and handheld showerheads for additional convenience. Also, be mindful of the bottom of the shower or tub. A non-slip surface can be extremely beneficial for everyone, even people without disabilities or limited mobility.
4. Place Handrails and Grab Bars in Key Areas
Speaking of grab bars, a shower is a great place for one, but it’s not the only place. You can install them next to your toilets, in hallways, or in the kitchen near lower-level cabinets. You can also place them in the living room next to seating areas to help renters who may need a boost getting in and out of a chair. You’ll also want to make sure that walkways and staircases have sturdy handrails that renters can grab for assistance if needed. Consider this for both apartments and common areas, like gyms or spas.
5. Widen Doorways and Flatten Thresholds.
One of the biggest issues with wheelchairs is getting them in and out of entranceways. Consider widening doorways into your apartments, office, and any common areas. The Americans with Disabilities Act actually requires doorways to be at least 32 inches — the minimum for wheelchairs. Always make sure your entrances comply with local laws as well. It’s also essential to make sure the thresholds at each entrance are flat enough for a wheelchair or walker to roll over.
6. Install Personal Alarm Systems.
Consider adding a personal alarm system that a disabled or elderly person can use to call for emergency help if necessary. This might go a long way in attracting new renters who are hesitant to live alone or who have families who fear them living alone.
7. Consider Other Handicap-Friendly Technology.
If you have the budget for additional technology, don’t stop there. Consider options like lighting with motion detection, visible doorbells for people with hearing problems, and vibrating smoke detectors. Stairlifts and automatic door openers are also great options that will appeal to a variety of renters.
