Before you use the result
Most accessibility complaints and demand letters trace back to a short list of visible problems: too few accessible spaces, no van space, faded striping, a blocked access aisle, or a broken route from the space to the door. This scorecard walks you through those red flags so a property manager can screen a lot without a full survey.
It's a screening aid, not a compliance audit or legal advice. A 'lower risk' result doesn't certify compliance, and accessibility degrades over time as striping fades and pavement shifts. Use it to prioritize what to fix and when to bring in a qualified accessibility professional.
Transparent assumptions
How this calculator works
Rate each item. Mark each of the eight red flags as Looks OK, Unsure, or Red flag as you walk the lot.
High-priority items carry weight. Missing accessible spaces, no van space, or a broken accessible route flag higher risk on their own, because they're the issues most likely to draw a complaint.
You get a risk tier. The overall pattern produces a High, Moderate, or Lower rating with guidance on what to document and address first.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common ADA parking violations?
The frequent ones are too few accessible spaces for the lot size, no van-accessible space, access aisles that are missing or used for parking, faded striping and symbols, missing or too-low signage, steep slopes, and a broken accessible route between the spaces and the entrance. These are exactly the items this scorecard checks.
How do I know if my parking lot is ADA compliant?
Start by confirming the number of accessible and van spaces matches the federal minimum for your total count, then verify striping, signage, access aisles, slopes, and the route to the entrance. This scorecard screens for the common red flags, but a definitive determination requires a qualified accessibility professional.
Does a 'Lower risk' result mean I'm compliant?
No. This is a screening tool, not a compliance audit or legal advice. A lower-risk result means the obvious red flags weren't present when you looked — it doesn't certify compliance, and conditions change as striping fades and pavement moves. Keep re-checking and document what you find.
Who is responsible for ADA parking lot compliance?
Generally the property owner, and often the tenant or property manager under the lease, share responsibility for accessible facilities. Because obligations depend on your specific situation and jurisdiction, consult a qualified professional or attorney rather than relying on a screening tool alone.
What should I do first if the scorecard flags high risk?
Prioritize the core requirements: enough accessible spaces, at least one van space, and an unbroken accessible route to the entrance. Document the issues with dates and photos, then get a professional assessment so corrections can be scoped and, where possible, bundled into your next striping or paving cycle.
Before you hire: The Pavement Directory does not provide legal or compliance advice. ADA and accessibility requirements vary by site, jurisdiction, and project scope. Contractors may perform striping, grading, concrete, or asphalt corrections, while CASp inspectors or accessibility consultants may be needed for compliance review. Consult qualified professionals when compliance is material.
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