Explanation
Discussions are underway to create "Visit-ability" Legislation in Ohio to require all newly constructed homes to include, at a minimum, features such as:
· one, no-step entrance on an accessible route
· doors with 32" and hallways with 36" clear passage
· Access to a bathroom on the main floor, with a minimum clear floor space of 30"X48"
· Electrical outlets, switches and controls at heights reachable by a person using a wheelchair
The accessibility of single family dwellings, particularly those not subsidized with government monies, are not covered by laws such as the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 or the Americans with Disabilities Act. The intent of Visit-ability legislation is to address very basic levels of access by people with disabilities to single family homes.
Visit-ability standards in new construction will ensure that future communities and neighborhoods are truly inclusive of everyone. There are also many benefits to this design standard that go beyond the needs of "identified" persons with disabilities. In the case of a temporary accident or illness, such access can mean the difference between staying in one's home versus being hospitalized or even institutionalized in a nursing home. As the population ages in increasing numbers, accessibility will be a necessity. Addressing the issue today is practical as long term public policy.
While there is no financial impact to passing this proposed resolution, there would be small costs to homebuilders if the State Board of Building Standards adopted the reccomendations outlined. Preliminary estimates indicate that including visitable features in the design and construction can cost as little as $200. The 2008 Statistical Abstract indicates the median average square footage of a house in the Midwest is 1,824. Visitability features for a house of this size will generally cost $0.11 per square foot.
Retrofitting an existing home with visitable features averages more than $6,000 p...
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