The Basics: Texas Accessibility Standards
David Flores RAS #1576
Providing equal & accessible spaces for all to enjoy is not only a right, it is essential to maximizing your buildings potential. While accessibility standards state minimum requirements for design, you may find that exceeding the minimum standard provides long lasting benefits ranging from saving money in the long term on future modifications to extended or maximized patronage.
As a professional in the field of architecture with 16 years of experience designing buildings and spaces in compliance with the Texas Accessibility Standard (TAS) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), I offer assessment services for existing buildings, preliminary plan & TAS review services as well as inspections for compliance with the laws & rules administered by the Texas Department of Licensing & Registrations (TDLR).
Getting started with TAS?
Lets start with determining if your project is required to comply by answering a few simple questions. Do you own an existing building constructed after January 1, 1970? Will the new construction or renovation cost equal or exceed $50,000 and service the public or a public entity? Are you an owner of a building with public accommodations as defined by the ADA, a place of lodging like a hotel, commercial facility or religious facility? If you answered yes in whole or in part to any of these questions, you will likely need to adhere to TAS 2012. Four exceptions apply (68.3)
Next
If you are the owner you may need the services of an architect to prepare drawings, a good place to start is The Texas Society of Architects. Prior to issuing drawings for permit you can request a preliminary review or register prior to permitting, submitting drawings to a RAS no later than 20 business days after issuing signed and seal documents. If you are a designer or owner submitting on behalf please remember you will be required to submit an “Owner Agent Designation” TDLR form declaring so.
Need an accessibility survey?
If all you need is a survey to determine if your building is compliant please email and we will be glad to provide you a quote for services after answering just few quick questions.
Want to learn more?
Give TDLR some clicks, take a gander at Chapter 469 of the Texas Government Code, and Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 68 to know if and to what extent your project is subject to comply with TAS 2012.
Ready to Register?
Would you like David Flores, RAS to register for you? Please please send an email. If self-registering, please do so through TABS, noting the RAS may choose to accept or decline.
