According to the Americans With Disabilities Act, businesses must accommodate people with disabilities. However, the government does make exceptions if implementing accessibility options presents certain challenges.
You do not have to cause undue hardship for your business. In these situations, you may have the ability to compromise for fewer accessibility options.
Financial constraints
Businesses with limited capital have to make careful budgeting decisions. The ADA takes financial constraints into consideration. For instance, a small company may struggle to afford an elevator. You do not have to financially break your business to make renovations. Track your costs and estimate the burden of complying with regulations.
Disruption to operations
During renovations, you may have to shut down your business temporarily. For example, installing a wheelchair ramp can block entrances and exits. Not to mention, construction work can impact productivity throughout the day. While larger businesses may have the ability to temporarily close, most small businesses cannot afford to.
Limitations of space
Some building layouts have limited space that can pose significant challenges. This is especially true with historical structures. Buildings with limited outdoor space or narrow walkways, for example, cannot have wheelchair ramps. Likewise, some historical monuments have restrictions against renovations or upgrades. An alternative to installing a wheelchair ramp may be to have a portable one on hand for your guests and employees.
You may have to strike a balance between meeting the needs of individuals and addressing practical concerns. Regulatory agencies can help you determine how to compromise without undue hardship.