Maintaining a business that is ADA compliant can mean a little extra work and a few more expenses, but those minor inconveniences are completely worth it when you look at all the benefits that compliance gives you. Here are a few reasons that your building NEEDS to be ADA compliant.

It's the law.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was created to prevent discrimination against people with disabilities, and it's a law held at the federal level. If your business violates ADA standards, you could be fined up to $150,000. Trying to avoid paying small expenses could result in bankruptcy, depending on the size of your business, which means it's financially irresponsible--and illegal--to not comply with ADA standards.

It earns customer loyalty.

Did you know that almost 1 in 5 US citizens have a disability? Refusing to comply with ADA standards could cost you nearly 20% of your customers. However, if you do the simple things it takes to meet ADA compliance standards, you could earn the respect of people with disabilities and, by word of mouth, substantially increase your number of customers.

It accommodates the elderly.

Americans with disabilities aren't the only people who benefit from the Americans with Disabilities Act. Many older adults need the same accommodations that disabled people do, not to mention people with chronic health issues. If you only cater your business to the young and healthy, it won't look good for your business ethically.

It earns trust in the community.

Businesses that are socially and morally responsible earn the trust and loyalty of their communities. It's important to comply with ADA standards to make sure the community believes that everyone is welcome in your store, regardless of their age, medical history, or disabilities.

It's not as expensive as you think.

We understand that saving money is important, but the extra expenses of ADA compliance aren't as many as you'd imagine. When you consider that, and the amount of customers you'll earn and keep simply by being ADA compliant, money becomes much less of a concern. Plus, there are a lot of creative solutions that don't require much money at all.

Remember: Being ADA compliant has more benefits than drawbacks, so make sure that ALL customers feel welcome in our businesses.