ADA and California Unruh Act Compliance: How Landlords Can Avoid Costly Litigation

The following article is provided by Loophole Lawyer, PC for general informational purposes only. This article does not constitute legal advice nor does it create an attorney-client relationship. Each circumstance and case is fact dependent—if you have questions about your case, call our office for a free consultation.

What is the ADA and Unruh Civil Righs Act?

California businesses must ensure their facilities are accessible under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Unruh Civil Rights Act. Properly maintained accessible parking, ramps, entrances, signage, and paths of travel aren’t just good practice—they’re a legal requirement. Failure to comply exposes businesses to significant ADA and Unruh Act litigation risk.

How Plaintiffs Identify Accessibility Violations

Plaintiff firms increasingly use tools like Google Maps satellite images to pinpoint non-compliant businesses. Common issues include:

• Missing or non-van-accessible parking spaces

• Faded or absent accessibility signage

• Steep ramps or ramps without handrails

• Door thresholds, aisles, or paths that block wheelchair access

Under California law, plaintiffs do not need to prove they were denied service. Simply encountering a barrier—or being discouraged by it—can provide standing to file a lawsuit. In some cases, even a person who never leaves their vehicle can sue for violations.

Financial and Legal Consequences of Non-Compliance

Violating ADA or Unruh Act requirements can be costly:

• $4,000 per violation under the Unruh Civil Rights Act

• Attorney’s fees for the plaintiff’s counsel (typically the heftiest litigation cost)

• Court-mandated repairs or injunctive relief to bring the property into compliance

Proactive accessibility measures are far more cost-effective than defending a lawsuit.

Steps to Ensure ADA and Unruh Compliance

Businesses can take practical steps to reduce risk:

1. Schedule a CASp Inspection
   A Certified Access Specialist (CASp) will review your facility for ADA and California accessibility compliance.

2. Remediate All Violations
   Fix non-compliant areas, including parking, signage, ramps, doorways, and interior access points, before they lead to lawsuits.

3. Maintain Ongoing Compliance
   Accessibility standards can change, so regular inspections and updates are essential to stay compliant and reduce legal exposure.

Key Takeaways for California Businesses

Compliance with ADA and the California Unruh Civil Rights Act isn’t optional. Plaintiff firms are actively monitoring businesses, and even minor violations can trigger lawsuits. By obtaining a CASp inspection and addressing accessibility barriers promptly, you protect your business from legal risk while ensuring your facilities are welcoming to all customers.