ADA Inspection & Compliance Surveys

Certified ADA Inspector evaluating an accessible parking stall.

Understanding ADA Inspections: What They Are

An ADA inspection (or compliance survey) is a thorough review of your property to ensure it meets the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, the federal civil rights law passed in 1990 that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. The ADA mandates that businesses, public accommodations, and other facilities provide equal access and services to people with disabilities by removing physical architectural barriers.

The goal of an ADA inspection is to identify areas where a business may not be compliant with ADA standards and provide recommendations for remediation. In many cases, this inspection is performed by a Certified Access Specialist (CASp), especially in California, to ensure your business meets both federal and state regulations.

We provide ADA inspections throughout Southern California, including San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino, & Imperial County.

Why ADA Inspections Matter to Southern California Businesses

Accessibility compliance is more than a legal requirement—it’s a commitment to your customers, employees, and community. A professional ADA inspection can help you:

  • Avoid costly lawsuits and regulatory fines

  • Build trust with customers and tenants

  • Enhance your reputation for inclusivity

  • Take advantage of tax incentives or credits

  • Spot and fix issues before they become complaints

What ADA Inspectors Look For

Exterior Accessibility

  • Parking Lots: ADA regulations mandate that a specific number of parking spaces must be accessible, including van-accessible spaces with appropriate signage, proper dimensions, slopes etc..

  • Accessible Routes: Walks leading to the accessible entrance(s) of a building need to be free from obstructions, with proper width and slope to accommodate wheelchairs or mobility devices. Ramps or platform lifts may be needed in some circumstances if stairs are present.

  • Signage: Proper ADA-compliant signage is necessary throughout the premises, especially for indicating accessible parking spaces, entrances, restrooms, and exits.

Interior Accessibility

  • Entrances: The primary entrance to a building must be accessible. This includes having doors that are easy to open or equipped with automatic door openers.

  • Paths of Travel: All hallways, corridors, and rooms must allow sufficient space for wheelchair access. Elevators or lifts may be required for multi-story buildings.

  • Restrooms: Public restrooms are a critical focus in ADA compliance. They need to have grab bars, accessible sinks, appropriately placed fixtures, and turning space for wheelchairs.

  • Counter Heights: Service counters, cash registers, and reception desks need to be at a height that accommodates individuals using wheelchairs.

  • Seating: Restaurants, theaters, and waiting areas must provide accessible seating options, ensuring there is ample space for mobility devices.

What You Receive After an ADA Inspection

When the inspection is complete, you’ll receive:

  • A detailed written ADA inspection report with findings and photos

  • A prioritized list of accessibility barriers

  • Code references for each issue (federal and local, where applicable)

  • Recommended corrective actions you can take

CASp Certificate in a storefront window.

ADA Inspection vs. CASp Inspection: What’s the Difference

Both ADA and CASp inspections review accessibility, but there’s an important difference:

  • ADA inspection – focuses on compliance with federal ADA standards

  • CASp inspection – A CASp Inspection includes ADA requirements plus California-specific building codes and gives you additional legal protections under state law

Not sure if you need a CASp Report? Our team can guide you based on your property type and location.


How Much Does an ADA Inspection in San Diego or Los Angeles Cost

The cost of an ADA inspection depends on your property’s size, complexity, and location. Factors include the number of parking stalls, levels, restrooms, and whether state-specific reviews (like a CASp inspection) are required. The typical cost of a small-medium sized facility ranges between $650 and $2,000 but we provide clear, upfront quotes before any work begins.

ADA inspector using a digital level on a sidewalk.

Schedule Your Inspection

Protect your business, your customers, and your peace of mind. Contact Proactive Access today to schedule your ADA inspection.

  1. Fill out our free estimate form or contact us directly.

  2. We typically provide a detailed proposal within 12 hours.

  3. Turnaround time for report delivery after the inspection date is typically 3-5 business days.

Southern California Facilities The We Provide ADA Services For:

Restaurants

Restaurants are one of the most targeted facilities by high frequency litigants. Our ADA Inspectors are very experienced with evaluating large and small restaurants.

Retail Establishments

All areas that are open to the public in retail facilities must be accessible to people with disabilities. Our accessibility inspectors will thoroughly evaluate all applicable areas and elements of the retail facility.

Hotels & Lodging

Lodging facilities have many accessibility requirements that are specific to the industry. Our ADA inspectors have surveyed large resorts, small boutique hotels and everything in between.

Medical and Dental Facilities

Medical facilities understandably have a higher level of accessibility standards compared to most public accommodations. Our expert team of ADA specialists will inspect all areas and elements of the medical facility.

Commercial Facilities

Shopping Centers are most often exposed to accessibility related litigation because of parking, which is the most common allegation in ADA lawsuits. Our experts inspectors have evaluated commercial facilities of all sizes.

Gas Stations and Convenience Stores

Fuel stations are often targeted by high frequency litigants for non-compliant fuel pumps as well as inaccessible convenience stores. Our ADA Inspectors will inspect all areas and elements of the fuel station facility.