Most ADA violations in California begin with small details that property managers overlook. The good news is that you can identify many high-risk issues yourself in just five minutes. This simple self-inspection checklist helps you spot common ADA problems before they lead to complaints, failed inspections, or lawsuits.

This guide is not a replacement for a formal ADA audit, but it will help you identify the most frequent issues seen across parking lots, paths of travel, and entrances.

Why a 5-Minute ADA Check Matters

Serial ADA plaintiffs often target properties with obvious visual issues. Many violations do not require technical measurements to identify. A quick walkthrough once a month can significantly reduce liability and help you stay ahead of compliance problems.

The 5-Minute ADA Self-Inspection Checklist

1. Check the ADA Parking Stall

• Is the paint bright, visible, and not peeling?

• Is the International Symbol of Accessibility clearly marked?

• Is the stall free of potholes, cracks, or lift points?

• Is the stall wide enough with clear boundaries?

If a stall looks crooked, faded, or damaged, it may already be out of compliance.

2. Inspect the Access Aisle

• Are the blue and white hash lines visible?

• Is the aisle completely free of cones, debris, or parked vehicles?

• Is the surface even, without depressions or lifted asphalt?

If the aisle is uneven or obstructed, it is considered noncompliant.

3. Look at the Access Route to the Building

• Is the path free of steps or abrupt changes in height?

• Are there cracks or uplifted sections that create trip hazards?

• Is there a continuous, unobstructed route from the parking stall to the entrance?

Any vertical rise over 1/4 inch is a potential ADA violation.

4. Examine the Ramp Area (If Applicable)

• Does the ramp have detectable truncated domes?

• Is the surface intact, without cracking or erosion?

• Is the ramp free of obstacles, carts, or merchandise displays?

Even small obstructions can violate ADA guidelines.

5. Review the Signage

• Is the handicap parking sign present and readable?

• Is it mounted at the correct height (minimum 60 inches from the ground)?

• Is there a “Van Accessible” sign where required?

Missing or faded signs are among the most common ADA violations.

6. Look for Surface Damage

• Are there potholes, dips, or cracked areas in the accessible path?

• Does water pool in the accessible stall or aisle?

Drainage problems often lead to slope violations, making ADA spaces noncompliant.

7. Confirm the Loading/Unloading Area is Clear

• Is there enough clear space for a wheelchair lift?

• Is the area free of storage, trash bins, or pallets?

Obstructions in this zone are a frequent reason properties fail ADA reviews.

When You Should Request a Professional ADA Evaluation

You should schedule a professional assessment if you notice:

• Faded or missing striping

• Water pooling

• Uneven pavements or uplifted slabs

• Missing signage

• Recent sealcoat or overlay work without slope verification

• Significant surface deterioration

Small problems become liabilities when left unaddressed. Early correction protects your property from costly litigation.

Final Thoughts

A simple 5-minute ADA check can reveal major risks before they escalate into complaints or lawsuits. Property managers who perform regular walkthroughs maintain safer, more compliant properties and avoid unnecessary claims.

This checklist is an excellent starting point, but full ADA compliance requires technical measurements and periodic professional evaluations.