Does the ADA Apply to Vacation Rentals?

By Anna Duncan

If you are a vacation rental owner or operator, one question that may be on your mind is whether the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to your property. The short answer is yes, it does.

The ADA is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in places of public accommodation. This includes hotels, motels, and other lodging establishments. Vacation rentals are typically considered places of public accommodation under the ADA, and as such, must comply with its requirements.

So what does this mean for vacation rental owners and operators? It means that you must make sure your property is accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes providing accommodations such as wheelchair ramps, accessible parking spaces, and accessible bathrooms.

Here are some specific requirements that vacation rentals may need to comply with under the ADA:

Accessible Parking Spaces:
If you have a parking lot or garage at your vacation rental property, you must provide accessible parking spaces for individuals with disabilities. These spaces must be located close to the entrance of the property and clearly marked with signs.

Wheelchair Ramps:
If there are any steps leading up to the entrance of your vacation rental property, you must provide a wheelchair ramp for individuals with mobility impairments. The ramp must meet certain specifications in terms of slope and width to ensure it is safe and easy to use.

Accessible Bathrooms:
If you have bathrooms in your vacation rental property that are available for guests to use, they must be accessible to individuals with disabilities. This means providing grab bars around the toilet and in the shower/tub area, as well as ensuring there is enough space for a wheelchair to maneuver.

It’s important to note that these are just a few examples of the requirements under the ADA. There may be other accessibility features that your vacation rental needs to have in order to comply with the law.

To ensure compliance with the ADA, it’s a good idea to consult with an accessibility expert or ADA consultant. They can review your vacation rental property and provide recommendations for any necessary modifications or accommodations.

In conclusion, if you own or operate a vacation rental property, it’s important to understand that the ADA applies to you. By providing accessible accommodations and features, you can ensure that your property is welcoming to all guests, regardless of their abilities.