Oregon 30-Hour Real Estate Law Practice Test

Who is responsible for ensuring a commercial property's accessibility requirements are met?

1. Architects and builders

2. Only property managers

3. Property owners and property managers

4. Local government authorities

The correct answer is: Property owners and property managers

The responsibility for ensuring that a commercial property's accessibility requirements are met primarily falls on property owners and property managers. This includes compliance with accessibility standards such as those outlined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other local regulations. Property owners are ultimately responsible for maintaining the property in a condition that meets all legal requirements, including accessibility. While architects and builders play a significant role in designing and constructing accessible structures, their responsibility is more focused on the initial design and building phase. After construction, it is the property owners and managers who must oversee day-to-day operations and ensure that the property remains compliant over time. Local government authorities do play a role in enforcing accessibility laws and conducting inspections, but their involvement does not relieve property owners and managers from their responsibilities. This collaborative relationship often includes obtaining permits and undergoing inspections, but the onus for compliance rests primarily with those directly controlling the property. Thus, property owners and property managers must stay informed and proactive in ensuring accessibility needs are continuously met.