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Step-free entrance before construction checklist

A pre-construction checklist for selecting the most reliable step-free entrance, verifying parking or drop-off connection, exterior route width and cross-slope goals, drainage and snow or weather exposure, landing and door maneuvering space, threshold and water-management details, lighting, handrail or guard needs, structural support, utility and property constraints, door operation and security, and an alternate emergency route before excavation, concrete, decking or door replacement fixes the geometry.

6 items to check

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The chosen route connects usable parking or drop-off to essential interior spaces

Critical item

The route should work in normal weather and daily routines.

Elevation change, available run and landing geometry are surveyed accurately

Critical item

Ramp, lift or regrading decisions need reliable levels.

Roof runoff, surface drainage, snow, ice and threshold water management are resolved

Critical item

Step-free entries must not create a leak or icing hazard.

Door clear opening, approach, hardware, closing force goals and security are coordinated

Critical item

The user should be able to approach, unlock, open and clear the door.

Footings, retaining edges, guards, rails, connections and utilities have approved design

Critical item

Exterior access work should be structurally durable and code-compliant.

Plans, permit, products, drainage details and construction hold points are approved

Critical item

Critical geometry should be checked before concrete or framing hides corrections.

Use before site work or ordering an exterior door. The best route is often not the formal front entrance. Do not use a checklist to prescribe medical care, transfer technique or mobility equipment. Do not remove structural framing, build ramps or guards, alter stairs, bathrooms, electrical work or gas systems without required design and permits. ADA Standards do not automatically govern every private single-family home; applicable law, program requirements and the approved project control.

Reference standards

  • The occupant’s documented abilities and goals, applicable locally adopted residential and accessibility requirements, any funded-program or housing obligations, approved plans, structural and trade design, permits and inspections, product instructions, and recommendations from qualified occupational therapy, accessibility, medical, structural, plumbing, electrical and construction professionals
  • Applicable residential code, site drainage, accessibility program criteria and selected door, threshold and drainage instructions

    • Tools

  • Current floor plans, site survey, occupant priorities, mobility-device dimensions, product data, permits, structural details and photographs
  • Tape measure, level, camera, mock-up materials and owner-safe functional checks; professional slope, force, lighting and structural measurements where needed
  • Qualified designer, occupational therapist or aging-in-place specialist plus licensed structural and trade professionals as applicable

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