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The ADA and FHA set minimum standards for accessible design of multi-family housing. Over the past decade, there have been numerous US DoJ investigations and private litigation in this market sector affecting hundreds of properties and tens of thousands of units. Kessler McGuinness & Associates, LLC supports developers and architects in compliance with ADA, FHA, and state accessible design requirements.

A Case History

301 West Broad Street – Falls Church, VA

Rushmark Properties asked KMA to help ensure the design and construction team’s full compliance with state and federal accessible design requirements. The 286 unit apartment complex includes first floor retail, 1 and 2 bedroom units, pool deck and bar, landscaped pocket park with fireplace areas, common lounges, library, fitness center, pet spa, and underground parking.

KMA reviewed plans from schematic design through construction documents for compliance with the ADA, FHA and model building code. The design team responded to KMA’s plan review notes, ensuring improved compliance at each phase. Throughout construction KMA visited the site to monitor and document conditions such as the location of grab bar reinforcement and electrical outlets, clearances at doors and fixtures, and cabinet locations. The Rushmark project manager and the construction team responded to KMA’s reports, making necessary changes after each visit. When necessary, KMA worked with the design and construction team to develop new design details. For example, when the pedestrian route and plaza did not conform to the code requirements, KMA assisted in resolving the issue. KMA’s review of a unit mock-up identified a compliance issue, allowing the developer to avoid the costly repetition of a mistake throughout over 250 units.

KMA’s focused and ongoing attention to the details of accessible design gives developers and their lenders assurance that the completed project meets all accessible design and construction requirements.

Representative Clients

Atlanta Housing Authority
Boston Housing Authority
Braintree Housing Authority
Brookline Housing Authority
MA Dept. Housing & Community Development

American Realty Advisors
Bainbridge Companies
Battersea Interest, LP
Berkshire Apartments
Boston Properties
BRE Properties
Dermot Company
Eaton Vance Management
Equity Residential
Federal Realty Investment Trust
General Development
Jonathan Rose Companies
Lightstone Group
Lincoln Property
National Development Corporation
Northland Investment Corporation
Pulte Homes
Simpson Property
Terwilliger Pappas
The JBG Companies
The Related Companies
Toll Brothers
Twinning Properties
Wood Partners