ADA vs Accessibility in Michigan: What’s the Difference?

ADA vs Accessibility in Michigan: What Homeowners Need to Know

If you are searching for ADA bathroom remodeling in Michigan or wheelchair accessible home modifications, you may be wondering:

Is accessibility the same as ADA compliance?

The short answer: No.

Understanding the difference is important when planning a Roll-In Shower, Barrier-Free Bathroom, or Aging-In-Place Remodel in Southeast Michigan.

What Is ADA Compliance?

ADA compliance refers to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) — a federal civil rights law that regulates accessibility standards in public and commercial spaces.

ADA applies to:

  • Medical offices

  • Commercial buildings

  • Government facilities

  • Public accommodations

  • Certain multifamily housing

ADA compliance requires strict measurements such as:

  • 60” turning radius

  • 1:12 ramp slope

  • Specific grab bar heights

  • Counter height maximums

  • Door clearance requirements

These standards are legally enforceable in commercial construction.


What Is Accessibility Remodeling?

Accessibility remodeling focuses on real-life functionality, safety, and independence inside a private home.

Most private homes in Michigan are not legally required to meet full ADA compliance.

Instead, residential projects are:

  • Customized to the individual

  • Designed around medical needs

  • Built for wheelchair transfers

  • Focused on fall prevention

  • Guided by CAPS and ADA-informed design principles

Accessibility is about making the home work for the person — not just meeting a code.

Wheelchair accessible roll-in shower installed by BFA, LLC in Southeast Michigan”

“Wheelchair accessible roll-in shower installed by BFA, LLC in Southeast Michigan”

Why This Matters for Michigan Homeowners

Many clients call and say:

“I need an ADA bathroom.”

What they really need is:

  • A safe roll-in shower

  • Properly reinforced walls

  • Correct grab bar placement

  • Enough clearance for wheelchair mobility

  • A layout designed for caregiver assistance

In residential remodeling, we often use ADA guidelines as a reference, but we tailor every project to the individual.

How BFA, LLC Approaches Accessibility in Michigan

At BFA, LLC – Contractor & Disability Consultant (ADAforAll.com), we design:

  • Roll-In Showers in Michigan

  • Wheelchair Accessible Bathrooms

  • Barrier-Free Remodeling

  • Age In Place Modifications

  • Vertical Platform Lift Installations

  • Disability Home Modifications

We use ADA guidelines when appropriate, but our focus is always:

Safety. Independence. Long-term functionality.

If You’re Planning Accessibility Remodeling in Michigan

Before starting your project, ask:

  • Is this residential or commercial?

  • Is full ADA compliance legally required?

  • Or do I need personalized accessibility design?

If you’re unsure, we can guide you through the right solution.

Schedule a professional accessibility assessment today at
www.ADAforAll.com

Access + Home = Life

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