How to Move Your Office From the City to the Suburbs

Posted on March 1, 2021 by bafcorp20

Like many business owners and commercial real estate proprietors, the COVID-19 pandemic has likely changed the way you do business, and greatly impacted your overhead operating costs. For this reason, many businesses are moving their big city and metro office locations to more community-based districts for lower rental rates and generous lease agreements. Not only is this saving business owners money, but it is also improving their overall budget efficiency. If your office or company is currently located in an expensive city location, you too might want to consider moving to the suburbs to help you and your staff better accommodate to the evolving office platform we have experienced this past year.

Continue reading for some tips that will help you better transition from a big city office location to a suburban location.

Indianapolis IN Office Remodeling Contractors 317-253-0531

Get Creative With Your Office Options

You don’t have to look for bland, strictly-leased office buildings if you want to move from the city to the suburbs. Get creative and think outside the box! For instance, due to the pandemic, there are many vacancies and retail spaces available for reduced rent at places like shopping malls, business plazas, and strip malls. Not only are these locations easy to renovate to meet your business’s needs, but they are also cheaper than big city rentals, and more conveniently located. Staff, guests, clients, or customers can enjoy the easy highway connections and commutes, nearby shopping, restaurants, and local services.

Hire a Tenant Improvement Contractor

Moving office locations involves a lot of steps, and even more consideration. Furthermore, the commercial real estate market can be complex and confusing. So, if you want to ensure you get a fair deal that will meet the current and future needs of your business, it is vital to hire a commercial general contracting company who specializes in tenant improvements and remodels. They have the acumen and professional resources to efficiently navigate brokerages, insurance, securities, lease agreements, zoning, permitting, space planning, and all other complexities involved in moving into a new office location.

Make the Switch Easy for Your Employees

Your staff will appreciate the effort you make to relieve some of the stress and labor involved in transitioning into a new office location. First, provide as much information as possible, and as soon as possible, in clear and precise ways, such as comprehensive packets, meetings, emails, flyers, and more. The more they know, the less fear and uncertainty they feel, making the move much easier for them. Also provide them with thorough information on the local demographics, public transportation, interstates and highway connections, local shopping centers, restaurants, dry cleaners, and more.

Know Your Codes and Zoning Requirements

Get to know your local building and city codes, including fire codes, construction permit requirements, zoning laws, and all other relevant regulations. Your commercial TI contractor can help you with this. So really, all you have to do is study the literature they provide, as they will be able to gather all relevant and important laws and information pertaining to your new location.

Are you looking for a TI contractor for help with office and commercial use construction in Indianapolis, Indiana? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 to learn your options for relocating and/or remodeling a new office space.

You Might Also Read:

General Tenant Improvements for Commercial Properties
Advice for Selecting a New Office Location
Who Pays for the Cost of the Tenant Improvements?

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting and Design Build Services — Contact Us Today 317-253-0531

FAQS about Commercial Flat Roof Systems

Posted on February 11, 2021 by bafcorp20

Flat roof systems are widely popular for commercial buildings. If you are a proprietor or business owner currently considering a new construction build, distressed asset remodel, or a full-out roof system replacement, you might benefit from learning more about flat roof systems and why they are a common choice in the commercial real estate industry. This will allow you to make a more educated decision for your property’s commercial construction or remodeling objectives.

Continue below to review the most frequently asked questions about commercial flat roof systems, including where you can get trusted commercial construction and remodeling work in Central Indiana.

Indianapolis Commercial Construction and Remodeling 317-253-0531

Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Flat Roofing

What is a Flat Roof?

Any roof that has slight roof pitches between 1/4″ to 1/2″ per foot and slopes less than 10 degrees is considered a flat roof. For this reason, they are also known as “low-slope” roof systems. Roof pitch simply refers to the slope, angle, and slant of your roof. A roof’s pitch is represented as either two numbers divided by a slash, or as a ratio with a colon between two numbers. The first number is the numerator, and the second number is the denominator. Each number represents a specific measurement of a roof’s slope. The numerator represents the vertical height of a roof’s slant, while the dominator represents the horizontal length of a roof’s slant.

How Much Does a Flat Roof Cost?

Costs vary from property to property and from company to company. They depend on a long list of factors, making each and every project cost unique to its project needs. Factors like material quality, square-footage, existing roof condition, region, and more, play a large role in the overall estimate for purchasing and installing a flat roof system. However, the average flat roof system costs range from $250 to $350 per “square” (100 square feet). Most come with warranties as well, either from the manufacturer or the service company, or both. With proper installation and maintenance, flat roof systems can last up to 30 years.

What is the Best Material for a Flat Roof?

There are many types of materials that can be used for flat roof systems. However, the 4 primary types include built-up roofing (BUR), modified bitumen (cap sheet roofing), EPDM rubber roofing (ethylene propylene diene monomer), and PVC or TPO single-ply membranes. Other materials include elastomeric spray on coatings such as butyl, acrylic, polyurethane foam, or silicon. The best material for your property depends on several factors, which can all be professionally assessed by a licensed commercial construction general contracting company. Trust them for accurate advice and information.

What is the Lifespan of a Flat Roof?

Flat roof systems generally come with 10 to 20 year warranties, depending on the retailer, manufacturer, and more. If properly maintained, a flat roof can easily last 20 to 25 years or more. Older roofs will require more maintenance than newer flat roofing systems, but regardless of age, routine upkeep is vital for optimal performance and longevity.

What are the Pros and Cons of Flat Roofs?

Standing water and obstructed drainage are common problems associated with flat roofs since they do not readily shed water. This means that regular maintenance and gutter care is vital to prevent roof leaks and other similar water damages. Installation is another key factor in the lifespan and proper drainage of a flat roof, which is why it is critical to hire a licensed and insured roofing company who can perform quality work that lasts. On the other hand, there are several advantages of flat roof systems. They are easier and quicker to install because they lack slope and weigh less than standard roofing material like shingles or shakes. This also makes them cost less since materials and labor are cheaper. They are also Eco-friendly and can allow for more interior living space.

Where Can I Get Certified Commercial Roof Replacement and Installation in Indiana?

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial construction services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Whether you are building from the ground up or remodeling an existing commercial property, we are the certified commercial general contractors to trust to meet all defined engineering and design specifications, procurement, schedules, and budgets. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

4 Tips for Planning a Tenant Occupied Building Renovation

Posted on November 6, 2020 by bafcorp20

If you are thinking about having your commercial building renovated while maintaining tenant occupancy, your first step is already underway. Preparing ahead of time is a key strategy to implementing a successful commercial renovation while tenant-occupied. With a little knowledge and the right commercial construction contractors on your side, you can pull off any scale of remodel or renovation without jeopardizing your occupancy.

Continue reading to learn 4 particular factors to start your focus, as well as who to call for reputable commercial building renovations in Indiana.

Indianapolis Commercial Renovations 317-253-0531

4 Things You Can Do to Ensure a Successful Tenant-Occupied Renovation Project

☑ Develop a Plan

As mentioned, planning is a big part of commercial construction success. Get with an accomplished commercial general contractor who has experience with tenant-occupied building renovations, and begin to develop a preconstruction and design build plan.

☑ Foresee the Real-Time Impact

After developing a full plan for your commercial building renovation, really take the time to understand what the impact will look and feel like, for both you and your tenants. This can help you better prepare yourself and your tenants for what’s to come. You can tell them what to expect, when to except it, and what to do if they run into any problems.

☑ Stay in Communication

Along with preparing your tenants for a building renovation is good communication efforts. Staying in communication on a regular basis with your tenants is a great way to ensure a smooth construction process. Continually post or email reminders about certain construction days or any changes to the schedule, and make sure everyone knows how and who to communicate to when they have concerns.

☑ Implement Work in Phases

Working a project in phases is another key to facilitating a smooth and successful building renovation while tenant-occupied. Basically, your commercial construction team will decide the best scheduling strategy for certain parts of the renovation plans, and then schedule them in phases so that the entire building is not shut down or under construction at one time.

An Indiana Commercial Construction Company You Can Trust to Meet Your Renovation Specifications

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial renovations in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors can help you decide which roofing option and course of action is best for your office or building. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Common Operating Costs as a Commercial Tenant

Posted on October 12, 2020 by bafcorp20

Whether you are preparing to perform a routine audit of your commercial lease portfolio, or considering a list of potential office spaces for rent, rent is not the only operating cost to review. Aside from rent, there are many other types of operating costs for a rented commercial space. Continue reading to learn some of the most common operating costs you can expect as a commercial tenant, as well as, where to get trusted advice regarding tenant improvements.

Indianapolis Tenant Improvement (TI) Contractors — Tenant Improvements and Office Renovations in Indianapolis 317-253-0531

The Cost of Rent

You can certainly expect to pay rent for your commercial space, but also expect this expense to be the bulk of your total operating costs. Review your base rent cost, then follow up by reviewing how that cost might evolve or increase overtime. Be prepared to learn that your lease allows the commercial landlord to increase rent at their discretion, as many commercial leases do. However, in such cases, the rate at which the rent will increase, and by how much, is usually defined in the lease agreement from the start. There are likely set caps on how high the rent can get. Variable indicators, like the Consumer Price Index, might also influence a landlord’s method of rent changes.

Property Taxes

Taxes are an obvious cost for a commercial tenant, and for anyone working in the country for that matter. In your commercial agreement, the portion of property taxes paid might be with a single, double, or triple net lease. Furthermore, property tax reassessments can result in sudden and unexpected operating cost increases. Talk to your landlord when reviewing your lease, and ask whether or not the property has been assessed recently, or if any assessment is in the books.

Insurance Coverage

General liability insurance might also be an obvious operating expense for a commercial tenant, but there is more to consider when reviewing your lease. For instance, if you have a double or triple net lease, you must pay for a portion of the landlord’s property insurance. When renegotiating your liability insurance premiums, be sure you understand that your space’s location will have an impact.

Utility Costs

Like any other modern building or space, it will require the use of electricity, running water, heating and air conditioning, and many other modern utilities. So, you can expect to pay utility costs on a routine basis, unless you have a gross or full-service lease. Talk to your trusted Indianapolis commercial general contracting company to learn how you can keep utility costs down by incorporating more sustainable infrastructure, operations, and technology.

Miscellaneous Fees

Your landlord might require their commercial tenants to be responsible for paying certain miscellaneous property fees, separate from rent and utilities. Some examples of such fees include parking fees, permits, property facility maintenance, exterior sign displays, a possibly even a hidden repayment of rent abatement. Also, some landlords will offer first months’ rent free, but then require that month’s rent to be repaid by the end of the year. Watch out for this too when reviewing your lease agreement.

General Maintenance and Upkeep

Commercial tenants are generally responsible for maintaining the property on their own dime. This commonly includes expenses like facility maintenance, custodial services, indoor plant care, garbage and recycling, minor repairs, landscaping service, snow removal, and security. Be sure to look for these fees in your commercial lease, and discuss who is responsible for paying what when the time comes. Also be sure to discuss your TI allowance with your landlord, and perhaps plan a needed tenant improvements or remodels for your commercial space or building.

Office Renovations and TI Improvements in Indianapolis, Indiana

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted office and commercial-use construction services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors are certified specialists in tenant improvements, office remodels, and commercial-use construction services. Whether you are launching, expanding, renovating, or relocating an office or professional space, our commercial construction and building contractors have the qualified expertise, first-class resources, and latest technologies to support your business’s objectives and generate long-term value. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial.

Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Interior Build Outs

Posted on August 27, 2020 by bafcorp20

Business and facility owners experience change as the years progress and the economy evolves. After so much time, many find themselves in need of a brick and mortar, new location, or new look. Either way, in comes the commercial interior build-out. Continue reading to review some of the most frequently asked questions about interior build-outs, including how they can benefit your business’s overall success and where to get started with a trusted bid in Indianapolis.

Indianapolis Commercial Leaseholder Improvement Contractors 317-253-0531

Commercial Interior Build-Out FAQS

What is a Commercial Interior Build-Out?

A commercial interior build-out can mislead business owners since they are often referred to as commercial tenant improvements (TI’s) or leaseholder improvements. Commercial tenant improvements and remodels are generally needed in almost all cases of a business needing new space since most commercial offices and units are not set up to meet the exact needs of a particular company. In fact, this is exactly what a commercial interior build-out is: a commercial construction remodel to an existing space to customize it structurally and culturally to the business’s unique needs.

Do Tenants or Landlords Pay for a Commercial Interior Build Out?

There is always some confusion with who pays for what when it comes to commercial tenant improvements and remodels. Generally, the landlord and tenant can choose how they want to arrange the financial liability for a commercial interior build-out. Among the possible arrangements, examples include:

✒ Rent Concessions – Landlord agrees to reduced rent, or no rent at all, for a select period of time, to cover the total cost of the project.

✒ Built-in Cost – Landlord believes the tenant will be an improvement to their building or facility, and decides to cover the entire cost of the interior build out.

✒ Reimbursement – If the landlord is paying for it all, they will either have the tenants pay and then reimburse them, or divide the cost of the project and include it in the total cost of the lease. This is referred to as a build-to-suit lease agreement.

✒ Square Footage Costs – Landlord agrees to pay to remodel a certain square footage, and the tenant covers the rest of the cost of the project.

Will My Business Benefit from an Interior Build Out?

There are many advantages to doing to a commercial interior build-out, whether you are an existing business that needs a facelift or modern technology applications, or a business just started out and in need of commercial space. A custom interior finish-out not only updates your business, making its operations more efficient and cost-effective, it increases staff morale and productivity. Accordingly, all of these effects increase your business’s revenue overtime.

How Do I Get a Bid for a Commercial Interior Build Out in Indianapolis?

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial construction general contracting and construction management in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors can help you design and build your interior build out, and offer a simple, streamlined process that meets all business objectives. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Vital Corporate Real Estate Leasing Tips for 2020

Posted on August 24, 2020 by bafcorp20

As a corporate company, whether just starting out or long-time established, one of the most critical decisions you will make will be renting office space. Not only are there several corporate real estate renting mistakes that can drastically impede the success of your company, office leasing is usually one of the highest expenses as well. For these reasons and more, it is important to do your research before finalizing any office space leases as a corporate tenant.

Continue reading to learn some of the top corporate real estate leasing tips you should consider and discuss with your commercial space planning and permitting consultants.

Commercial Real Estate Space Planning 317-253-0531

When it is your duty to find a new location for your corporate office, be sure to keep these cost-saving tips in mind:

✅ See the Unit in Person

Especially with the current epidemic underway, many commercial brokers are doing business online. As a result, it is becoming more common for commercial proprietors to sign a lease for office space they have never actually seen in person. Although this is deemed acceptable by a large market of tenants, it can be a devastating mistake. Always view and tour a potential office space on-site, not just over the phone or via online listing.

✅ Rent the Right Amount of Space

When it comes to finding an office space, consider the Goldilocks rule. You want the right amount of space that is neither too small and nor too big. Not only can the wrong amount of office space hurt you financially, both short and long-term, it can also cause additionally risk to various aspects of running a business, such as accident liability, building codes, and more.

✅ Do Not Focus Solely on Cost

There is a lot more to renting office space responsibly than just your budget. By leading your search on a budget-focused agenda, you could be putting yourself at a disadvantage. Although budget is an important standard, there are other factors can determine the value of an office space, such as amenities, price per square foot, surrounding community traffic, and more.

✅ Probe the Surrounding Community

On the topic of the surrounding community, be sure to set your sights on other factors that influence an office space other than the actual location. Not only should you be looking at the office space in person, you should also be looking at the surrounding area. You will want to consider the average commercial rental rates, average annual income among residents, crime statistics, nearby businesses, neighboring competitors, and more.

✅ Read the Fine Print in Full

When it comes to leasing a new corporate office space, one of the most vital tasks is to read the contract in full. Commercial leases are much more complex, and require acute attention to detail and fine print. You will want to understand lease clauses, key dates and deadlines, tenant improvement allowances, and more. You should also hire a commercial real estate lawyer to translate any confusing parts of the lease to you.

Commercial Real Estate Space Planning and Permitting in Indianapolis, Indiana

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial space planning and permitting services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our expert space planning and design teams ensure all aspects of your commercial construction and post-occupancy business objectives are met in an ordered fashion, on time, and within budget. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Who Pays for the Cost of the Tenant Improvements?

Posted on June 12, 2020 by bafcorp20

Tenant remodels and leasehold improvements are much different from conventional commercial construction projects since they are intended to be an investment for a business owner. With that being said, when it comes down to who pays for what in a tenant improvement project, the answer can be more complex than you would expect.

Continue reading to learn more about who pays for the cost of tenant improvement (TI) projects, as well as, where to get trusted TI construction work near you.

TI Cost Planning

Generally, TI costs are considered by the landlord of the property when they agree to a rental rate among tenants. Most often, a portion of a tenant’s monthly rent will reimburse a landlord for the cost of TI construction work, however, this is not always the case. In the case of a turn-key tenant improvement project, it is necessary for the landlord to know specific details on the work being performed, including which areas or spaces are being remodeled. Another reason why a turn-key project requires upfront information for a landlord is so that they know how much the costs are going to be for all the work.

TI Allowances and Lease Signings

At the time of the lease signing, both the tenant and landlord should come to an agreement regarding TI allowances. Tenant improvement allowances are sums of money made available to tenants by the landlord to cover some of the cost of needed remodeling work. Such allowances are usually stated on a per-square-foot basis, and most common for new spaces since more renovations are needed to finish the project. However, the amount of money provided by a landlord for TI work varies greatly, and depends on a wide range of factors, such as the age or current condition of the space, duration and value of a tenant’s lease agreement, market demand, and more.

Furthermore, if the total cost of a tenant improvement project exceeds the original, agreed-up allowance, the tenant is responsible for paying the remainder. Although rare, it is possible for the landlord to take on the excess costs themselves, but they will only do so to a certain capped amount, plus increase the tenant’s rent accordingly.

If a tenant decides to take on the TI work themselves, they risk being subjected to delays and unanticipated setbacks, which can hurt them financially since their rent will still be due on the date in the lease contract, regardless if they can move into the space yet or not. In this case, the tenant takes on all of the risk, and might have to pay more for construction, while also paying rent at the same time, without any revenue coming in.

To avoid this hassle, always hire a professional commercial construction company that specializes in tenant improvement work. You see, commercial building teams use a client-centered partnership approach to accurately understand our client’s business objectives and tenant’s needs, and deliver results that maximize their profitability by driving greater value.

Indianapolis Tenant Improvement Construction Contractors

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted tenant improvement construction in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors deliver a streamlined construction process that meets all defined engineering and design specifications, procurement, schedules, and budgets for your commercial office space or business. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

How to Find a Qualified Tenant Improvement Contractor

Posted on April 21, 2020 by bafcorp20

As a commercial building owner who wishes to entice long-term tenants to enter into or remain in a lease with you, it is wise to offer a tenant improvement package. To confer such an opportunity to important tenants would mean to protect your overall business objectives and long-term investment goals. But in order to be successful with a tenant improvement (TI) project, you must ensure you enlist the right commercial construction contractors.

Continue below to learn how to find a qualified tenant improvement contractor to help you plan, design, and execute your TI needs.

Indianapolis Commercial TI Contractors 317-253-0531

Start With Licensing and Insurance

The first set of credentials to look for when hiring a commercial contractor for tenant improvement services are licensing and insurance. Commercial construction is a serious undertaking that requires the utmost proficiency and security. A company with an active and good-standing operating license, as well as full-coverage insurance, is a company that can be considered worthy of hiring.

Move On To Qualifications

Beyond licenses and insurance coverage, a TI contractor should retain extensive training and knowledge of the construction field, coupled with years of hands-on commercial construction experience. Look for a licensed and qualified tenant improvement contracting team that has been working in the industry for decades, and can offer an actual portfolio of successful projects.

Furthermore, narrow your search by choosing a TI contractor who has actual experience in the type of business you own or are opening up. For example, if you are a leaseholder to a group of tenants in the medical care industry, you would be wise to select a contractor who has experience specifically in medical building construction and tenant improvements.

Consider Value and Innovation

When it comes to long-term tenants, you want your renovations to stand the test of time. To achieve this, your tenant improvement projects will require higher quality building materials, which can only be offered by an accomplished and reputable commercial construction company. When interviewing potential TI contracting teams, be sure to consider the value they offer in terms of their resources, equipment, and building materials. Furthermore, be sure they can offer current technologies and innovative solutions for your growing business objectives.

Central Indiana Tenant Improvement Contractors You Can Trust

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for commercial TI construction and planning in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding Central Indiana locations. Our commercial construction teams use a client-centered partnership approach to accurately understand our client’s business objectives and tenant’s needs, and deliver results that maximize profitability by driving greater value. When you choose BAF Corporation for commercial tenant improvement planning and construction, you can expect competitive pricing, value engineering, efficient project completion, and turnkey service. Get started with an over-the-phone consultation, today.

Can Commercial Renovations Be Done While a Building is Occupied?

Posted on April 17, 2020 by bafcorp20

Owning a commercial property means that you are investment-driven, and therefore, interested in maintaining a money-making asset. One way building owners safeguard their business’s profitability growth is by staying up to date with the changing technologies and designs of modern commercial real estate.

On the other hand, many building owners feel conflicted between completing needed or profit-building renovations, and caring to the needs of their tenants. This conundrum leaves many commercial building owners to ask whether or not they can even move forward with property upgrades or remodels if it is still tenant occupied.

Continue reading to learn the recommended course of action for planning a commercial building renovation while your property is occupied with tenants.

Indianapolis Commercial Building Renovations 317-253-0531

Commercial Building Remodels

The truth is that commercial building renovations can’t always wait. In some cases, they need to be carried out quickly, or for emergency purposes. So, more commonly than not, such construction is typically implemented during times of tenant occupation. The only catch is to ensure that the proper methodology is taken, because there is a right way and a wrong way to make building renovations when existing tenants are involved.

Before finalizing a commercial building renovation plan, be sure both you and your commercial contracting team have covered these vital considerations:

☑ Be Aware of the Impact it Will Have on Your Tenants

To alleviate added inconvenience for your tenants, be sure to inform them of everything they need to know about the construction, including the how the changes will benefit them and the construction timeline. When tenants know what to expect, they have an easier time to plan ahead and make their own arrangements as needed.

☑ Establish a Clear and Convenient Method of Communication

During times of building construction, your tenants will feel better knowing that they can contact a source directly if they have questions or concerns. Prior to beginning any renovations, give your tenants a clear and convenient line of communication they can rely on, whether via email, phone, or office visit. Be sure to keep these lines of communication open so that you can also establish trust among your tenants.

☑ Begin and Finish in Phases

Although some renovations must be done immediately for the purpose of safety or health, many can be divided into separate construction phases. When renovating a building with tenants, breaking up the construction process into segments, rather than attacking it all at once, has a much lower impact on your tenants and their customers, if any.

Where to Get Advice on Your Needed Building Renovations in Indiana

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial building renovations and tenant improvements in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our esteemed and experienced commercial general contractors serve corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, and throughout Central Indiana. Request free information or to schedule a consultation, anytime.

Modern Wheelchair Accessibility Options for Commercial Properties

Posted on March 27, 2020 by bafcorp20

As a commercial property owner, the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) is something you need to fully appreciate and consider when it comes time to plan a major remodel or renovation, especially for multi-story buildings. ADA compliancy and adequate wheelchair accessibility are two key factors that must be addressed and incorporated into your commercial building in order to remain non-delinquent under the civil law requirements for public accommodation.

Not sure where to begin with your new ADA compliancy and wheelchair accessibility plan? Continue reading to learn some of the most popular options for commercial buildings, and how to get started on the right track in terms of planning and construction.

Indianapolis Design Build Commercial Construction 317-253-0531

ADA Compliant Options for Disabled Individuals

There are plenty of options you can choose from to ensure your commercial property is adequately accessible to those in wheelchairs, as well as those who are disabled. Some of the most popular ADA compliancy and wheelchair accessibility options include wheelchair lifts, ADA ramps, and ADA elevators. Often times, commercial buildings owners will incorporate more than one method to achieve optimal accessibility. To learn more about ADA standards for accessible design, visit ADA.gov.

ADA Ramps

There are very strict and specific state requirements for ADA ramps. First, wheelchair ramps have to be at least 36 inches wide, and retain protective edges to prevent falling accidents. Furthermore, such ramps must be constructed with perfectly level platforms at both ends to ensure stability. These landing areas must be as wide as the ramp, and at least 5 feet long. Aside from width and length, ADA ramps are required to meet certain criteria for slope as well. Maximum slope allotment for wheelchair ramps are 1 inch of rise to every 12 inches of length. More commonly, ADA ramps are constructed with 1 inch of rise to every 20 inches of length.

Wheelchair Lifts

As you just learned, ADA ramps must have the correct slope and height ratio to deliver a safe and comfortable passageway for disabled individuals. But sometimes, a commercial building does not have the space to accommodate a ramp. In really tight quarters, such as spiral staircases or multi-story lobbies, commercial construction specialists will recommend using a wheelchair lift. Wheelchair lifts are similar to elevators in that they mechanically transport a wheelchair from one level to another. Such lifts are compatible with most high-level spaces, and do not require invasive construction. Best of all, they can be applied to interior staircases, exterior stairways, and even swimming pools.

ADA Elevators

When ramps and lifts are not a compatible solution to ADA compliancy and wheelchair accessibility, a great option are ADA-approved elevators. ADA elevators are different from standard elevator systems because they are designed with greater dimensions to allow safe and easy access for those in wheelchairs. Furthermore, their doors must remain open for at least 3 seconds prior to closing. ADA elevator compliancy also requires easy access to buttons and controls on the inside of the elevator and on the wall outside of the elevator, as well as, visual and audio cues that signal elevator availability and movement.

Indianapolis Commercial Construction Company You Can Trust

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial construction management in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.