ADA Concrete Compliance Checklist for Ohio Properties (Curb Ramps, Slopes, Landings)

If you manage or own a commercial property in Ohio, maintaining safe and accessible walkways isn’t just a good practice—it’s a key part of protecting visitors and reducing liability. From sidewalks to entrances and parking areas, ADA concrete compliance is often centered on the details that people don’t notice until something is “off,” like uneven landings, steep slopes, or curb ramps that don’t properly transition from street to sidewalk.

Our commercial concrete team at Gaddis & Son, Inc. put together this straightforward ADA checklist to help Ohio property owners and facility managers spot common issues with ADA sidewalk compliance. If you’re not sure whether your concrete meets current guidelines, we’re here to help you plan upgrades that improve accessibility and keep your site functional.

1) Sidewalks: Check Width, Surface Condition, and Trip Hazards

Sidewalks are one of the most visible accessibility features on a commercial property. Even if the path is “mostly fine,” small issues like cracked edges, raised joints, or deteriorated panels can create major mobility barriers.

• Look for: heaving panels, spalling edges, wide cracks, or abrupt level changes
• Common ADA sidewalk compliance issues: uneven sections, poor drainage that creates ice, and patched areas that don’t sit flush
• Best practice: repair or replace sections that create an unstable surface for wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers

If you’re evaluating a high-traffic route, an experienced commercial concrete contractor can help you determine whether spot repairs are enough or if a full panel replacement will be more cost-effective.

2) Curb Ramps: Make Sure the Transition Is Smooth and Predictable

Curb ramps are a major focus of ADA concrete compliance because they connect pedestrian travel paths to parking lots, crosswalks, and entry points. Poor ramp geometry or broken concrete at the curb line can stop accessibility cold.

• Look for: crumbling curb edges, ponding water at the base, or ramps that feel “tippy” or too steep
• Check alignment: ramps should direct users into the intended travel path—not into traffic or uneven surfaces
• Safety reminder: keep ramp surfaces stable and consistent to reduce slips during rain, snow, and freeze-thaw cycles

3) Slopes: Review Running Slope and Cross Slope on Walkways

Slope problems can be subtle—especially on long sidewalk runs or across large exterior flatwork areas. But in practice, excessive slope makes travel uncomfortable or even unsafe for many people using mobility devices.

When reviewing ADA sidewalk compliance, pay attention to:

• Running slope: how steep the path is in the direction of travel
• Cross slope: the side-to-side tilt that can pull wheelchairs off-line
• Drainage: slope should move water away without creating “channels” that ice over

If your sidewalks were installed years ago, settling and soil movement can gradually change slope over time. A professional site review can identify where regrading or concrete replacement is needed.

4) Landings: Confirm Flat Rest Areas at Entrances and Doorways

One of the most common trouble spots for ADA concrete compliance is the landing area outside an entry door. Even small settling can create a pitch that affects door clearance, footing, and wheelchair stability.

• Look for: sloped pads at doors, pooling water near thresholds, and cracked corners
• Check transitions: landings should connect smoothly to the sidewalk with minimal abrupt changes
• Don’t forget: exterior steps and ramps often need connected, stable landing pads to be functional

5) Commercial Concrete Surfaces: Parking Areas, Approaches, and Site Paths

ADA compliance isn’t limited to sidewalks. Property owners should also evaluate exterior commercial concrete surfaces that connect the full travel route from parking to the building.

• Inspect: accessible parking access aisles, walk routes to entrances, and curb transitions
• Watch for: broken wheel stops, cracked aprons, or patched areas that create uneven surfaces
• Seasonal concern: drainage and freeze-thaw damage can quickly turn small defects into hazards

6) Documentation: Keep Records of Repairs and Site Improvements

If you’re addressing ADA sidewalk compliance on a commercial property, it’s helpful to maintain records of inspections, repairs, and upgrades. Documentation supports maintenance planning and provides clarity when multiple stakeholders manage the property.

• Take before-and-after photos of repaired ramps, sidewalks, and landings
• Track locations of recurring cracking or settlement for long-term planning
• Schedule periodic walk-throughs to catch small issues early