An accessible route is an unobstructed path connecting all accessible features, elements, and spaces of buildings, facilities, and sites. An accessible route allows a person by with physical disabilities to access all areas of the property. Properties funded with HUD 232 and HUD 232/223(f) loans typically must have accessible routes.

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An accessible route is an unobstructed path connecting all accessible features, elements, and spaces of buildings, facilities, and sites. Properties funded with HUD 232 and HUD 232/223(f) loans typically must have accessible routes.

For investors or owners of subsidized properties undergoing rehabilitation, it’s also important to realize that these properties generally must follow accessible design rules established in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Specifically, these include some USDA funded-properties built during or after 1982 and HUD-financed properties built during 1988 or after.

Section 504 requires that 5% of all units be disability accessible units, while 2% of the units need to accessible for the visually or hearing impaired. Common areas also need to be disability accessible for properties built before these dates. Properties built after these dates do not generally need to follow these rules unless they are undergoing substantial rehabilitation.

It's important to realize that these rules do not apply to all properties using government subsidies.

Having an accessible route in commercial real estate can provide a number of benefits. An accessible route allows people with physical disabilities to access all areas of the property, which can help to ensure that the property is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Additionally, having an accessible route can help to increase the value of the property, as it can make it more attractive to potential buyers or tenants. Finally, having an accessible route can also provide tax benefits for an investor’s heirs, as they will only need to pay taxes on the amount that the property has appreciated, not the entire sale price.

The best practices for creating an accessible route in commercial real estate are to ensure that the route is unobstructed and connects all accessible features, elements, and spaces of buildings, facilities, and sites. This includes making sure that the route is wide enough for wheelchairs and other mobility devices, and that it is free of any obstacles or barriers. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the route is well-lit and clearly marked, and that it is free of any hazardous materials or conditions.

For properties funded with HUD 232 and HUD 232/223(f) loans, it is important to make sure that the accessible route meets the requirements set forth by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This includes making sure that 5% of all units are disability accessible units, and that 2% of the units are accessible for the visually or hearing impaired. Common areas also need to be disability accessible for properties built before these dates.

It is also important to consult with experts such as general contractors, lawyers, and property managers to ensure that the accessible route meets all applicable regulations.

Not having an accessible route in commercial real estate can have serious legal implications. Depending on the age of the property, it may be subject to the accessibility requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This requires that 5% of all units be disability accessible units, while 2% of the units need to accessible for the visually or hearing impaired. Common areas also need to be disability accessible for properties built before these dates. Properties built after these dates do not generally need to follow these rules unless they are undergoing substantial rehabilitation. It's important to realize that these rules do not apply to all properties using government subsidies. Source