Accessibility as a Smart Business Investment
ADA Compliance Can Boost Your Bottom Line
Many business owners underestimate the economic opportunity that comes with creating an accessible facility. Accessibility isn’t just about compliance—it’s about expanding your customer base and enhancing your reputation. According to the CDC, More than 1 in 4 adults (28.7 percent) in the United States have some type of disability. If your business isn’t accessible, you could be turning away a significant portion of potential customers without even realizing it.
Imagine this scenario:
You’re looking for a place to have dinner and use a wheelchair for mobility. You find two mexican restaurants restaurants located in downtown San Diego — one offers accessible parking, ramps, and restrooms, while the other doesn’t. The choice is simple. You (and your friends and family) are far more likely to visit the restaurant that makes accessibility a priority.
This same principle applies across all industries—hospitality, retail, healthcare, entertainment, and beyond. A hotel chain that actively invests in accessibility not only avoids costly ADA lawsuits but also gains loyal guests who appreciate and trust their commitment to inclusivity. In many cases, those customers will choose an accessible property even if the room rates are higher than competitors. Accessibility isn’t just a legal obligation—it’s a smart business strategy.
Accessibility Improvements Don’t Have to Break the Bank
Many business owners assume that ADA upgrades are prohibitively expensive, but that’s often not the case. In fact, CASp inspections performed by a Certified Access Specialist reveal that approximately 80% of accessibility barriers can be resolved with simple, low-cost fixes.
Examples of affordable improvements include:
Adjusting door pressures or handle types
Installing proper signage and tactile indicators
Re-striping parking spaces
Adding accessible seating or restroom grab bars
Each time an accessibility barrier is removed, your business becomes more welcoming to a wider audience—and your exposure to litigation decreases. These improvements don’t just enhance compliance; they directly translate to better customer experiences and increased revenue opportunities.
The Smart Approach: CASp Inspections & Tax Incentives
Scheduling a CASp inspection is the most effective way to understand your facility’s current level of accessibility and create a clear, prioritized action plan for improvements. CASp inspectors are trained professionals who evaluate your property against state and federal accessibility standards, helping you identify both immediate and long-term solutions.
Even better, the federal government offers tax incentives—including the Disabled Access Credit and Barrier Removal Deduction—to help offset the cost of ADA compliance upgrades. By incorporating these incentives into your improvement plan, you can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses while boosting your facility’s inclusivity and value.
Accessibility Is an Investment in Your Future
Improving accessibility is about more than avoiding lawsuits—it’s about opening your doors to everyone. Businesses that champion accessibility build stronger communities, foster loyalty, and position themselves for sustainable growth.
Now is the perfect time to take action. A CASp inspection provides the knowledge and confidence you need to move forward strategically—and profitably.