5 Home Accessibility Fails to avoid

5 Unbelievable Home Accessibility Fails

Nathan Colburn Articles, Newsletter

As we work with homeowners with physical disabilities, we see many accessibility fails that were made by contractors or other companies that just don’t meet ADA requirements. Some of these mobility equipment installations and home modifications are unfortunately unusable for the homeowner and result in even more headache and inaccessibility than before they were installed. Working with an accessibility provider who understands both ADA requirements and the practical, everyday needs of the homeowner, along with the knowledge of equipment or home modifications can help eliminate the stress of having to deal with a modification gone wrong.

Home Accessibility Fail #1: Too Close To Be Usable

Home Accessibility Fail - a stair lift installed on a curved staircase too close to the wall

That’s one tight space


This stairlift was installed on a stairway that was way too narrow to accommodate the equipment. The homeowner was unable to use this lift without banging his knees on the wall as the lift when around the corner. Ensuring proper clearance for both equipment and user is key.

 

Home Accessibility Fail - a wooden wheelchair ramp with no railings at the bottom

The railing should extend through the end of the ramp

Home Accessibility Fail #2: No Railing, Big Problem

At first glance, this ramp may look ok, but the lack of railing at the end of the ramp poses a significant problem for the user. One wrong move and a wheelchair could end up rolling off the ramp and into the yard, worse yet, the street!

 

Home Accessibility Fail #3: Two Steps Too Steep

Home Accessibility Fail - concrete wheelchair ramp too steep and not safe

This ramp would make for a dangerous ride

From the driveway to the ramp there are two major barriers – big concrete steps. Once you get to this ramp, the incline is so severe that it would be scary to use with a wheelchair, power chair or walker. The incline of a ramp is key for usability, especially when caregivers or loved ones are helping to push move maneuver. For those who use manual wheelchairs under their own power, the wrong incline can make it as difficult to access a home, church, or business as if there were no ramp present at all.

 

 

 

Home Accessibility Fail #4: Safety First

Home Accessibility Fail - vertical platform lift for a wheelchair installed in a garage with no gate, which is dangerous

Upper gate is missing

This is another one where it may be difficult to spot what’s wrong. However, if you look closely you will see that there is no upper gate to prevent someone from rolling or falling onto the lift when it is down. While it is a shorter drop, an accidental fall can cause serious injury. There is also no handrail around the platform to help keep the user from rolling off the other edge of the platform.

 

Home Accessibility Fail #5: Get on the Level

Home Accessibility Fail - concrete wheelchair, scooter ramp too steep and with no railing makes it very dangerous

Only a matter of time for slips and falls to happen here

This ramp slopes downhill, is uneven and doesn’t have any railing making it extremely dangerous. Add any type of moisture like rain, snow or ice and this homeowner could have ended up severely injured. When there is any type of uneven ground in the area where you need access to your home, working with a professional who can help you select the right type of ramp is crucial.

 

 

 

Get Home Accessibility Done Right!

If you or someone you know is making do with a less than ideal modification or equipment that doesn’t really work, let our team of accessibility experts perform a free, in-home evaluation. We’re passionate about helping you stay safe and mobile in your home. Request a FREE Evaluation!