With over 1.6 billion people worldwide living with a disability, creating accessible commercial spaces is essential. Yet for many building owners and business operators, commercial accessibility feels overwhelming. ADA requirements, building codes, elevator specifications, compliance deadlines—where do you even start?
Whether you’re building new, renovating existing spaces, or simply trying to understand your obligations, you’ll find clear answers about all things accessibility in this blog post. Keep reading for more information about which solutions are required, what options exist, and how to choose the right approach for your building and budget.
When Does Your Commercial Building Need an Elevator or Lift?
You might be wondering: Does my commercial building really need an elevator? The truth is: it depends. Let’s review commercial accessibility requirements in both the United States and Canada.
ADA Requirements (United States)
The Americans with Disabilities Act sets the baseline for accessibility in commercial buildings. The key rule to remember is this: An elevator is generally required if your building has three or more stories or more than 3,000 square feet per story. However, there are some types of buildings that require elevators, regardless of size. Buildings that always require elevators are:
- Shopping centres and malls with five businesses or more.
- Healthcare offices
- Transit terminals, such as airports, bus terminals, or train stations
Keep in mind: state-specific and local building regulations may differ from ADA requirements. Ensure you review your local regulations before making any plans.
Canadian Accessibility Requirements
Canada’s accessibility landscape varies by province, but the trend is toward increasingly comprehensive requirements. For example, the National Building Code of Canada requires barrier-free access in most multi-story buildings. Key thresholds include:
- Buildings over 600 metres in building area and more than two storeys typically require elevator access.
- Assembly occupancies over 100 metres require barrier-free access.
- Storeys containing facilities integral to the building’s primary function require accessible routes.
As mentioned, specific requirements vary from province to province. Verify local requirements and building codes where necessary. Looking for more information? The RAM Elevators and Lifts team knows the ins and outs of Canadian codes and regulations. Contact our office today for more information.
Commercial Elevators and Lifts Compared
Multiple solutions exist for providing vertical accessibility in commercial buildings. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right approach for your specific situation.
Vertical Platform Lifts (VPLs)
A vertical platform lift is an open platform that travels straight up and down, providing wheelchair-accessible vertical transportation for shorter distances. They are ideal for stage access, split-level retail, or outdoor entrances.
- Travel distance: Typically up to 14 feet
- Capacity: 750 lbs standard
Commercial Enclosed Elevators
For buildings requiring full elevator access but without the massive footprint of a hospital-style elevator, small commercial elevators provide the sweet spot.
RAM’s commercial lift is designed for 2-3 3-storey commercial buildings where a standardized solution fits the need.
- Travel: Up to 14 feet
- Capacity: 800 lbs
- Footprint: Compact—shaft dimensions starting at 50.5″ x 53.5″
- Key Features: Machine-room-less design, pitless options (2-3″ ramp), all-electric drive.
On the other hand, RAM’s Commercial Crystal elevator is ideal for buildings requiring more capacity, longer travel, or custom specifications.
- Travel: Up to 23 feet (commercial applications)
- Capacity: 1,400 lbs—accommodates multiple passengers, wheelchairs, and equipment.
- Key Features: Counter-balanced traction drive using 50% less energy than comparable products.
Which Commercial Elevator Installation is Right for You?
| Factor | VPL (Flex Lift) | Small Commercial (Stratus) | Full Custom Commercial (Crystal) |
| Best For | Short rises, stages, and outdoor access | Moderate rises, professional offices, retail | Higher traffic, longer travel, and medical use |
| Travel | Up to 14 ft | Up to 14-25 ft | Up to 14-25 ft |
| Capacity | 750 lbs | 800-1,400 lbs | 1,400+ lbs |
| Construction | Minimal | Low (No machine room needed) | Moderate |
Industry-Specific Accessibility Considerations
Different types of commercial buildings have unique accessibility challenges.
Retail and Mixed-Use Developments
Mixed-use buildings—combining retail, residential, and office space—present unique challenges. You must balance secure access for residents with public access for shoppers, often within a limited footprint. Shopping centers with 5+ establishments generally require elevators regardless of square footage, meaning even boutique developments need a vertical strategy.
Churches and Places of Worship
Religious organizations are technically exempt from the ADA, but accessibility is still important, especially for aging congregations. Many places of worship occupy historic buildings with significant architectural barriers—sanctuaries on raised levels, fellowship halls in basements, and narrow entryways. Standard commercial elevators are often too large or expensive for these retrofit projects, making vertical platform lifts an ideal solution.
Medical Offices and Healthcare Facilities
Healthcare facilities face the most stringent accessibility requirements—there are no exemptions based on building size. Even a single-story medical office must provide accessible facilities. These facilities deal with heavy foot traffic from visitors, patients, and employees–all with varying mobility levels. Plus, they also must regularly transport medical equipment, wheelchairs, carts, and more. In such situations, a comprehensive elevator, such as those offered by RAM Elevators and Lifts, is often ideal.
Partner with RAM for Commercial Accessibility
Since 1987, RAM Elevators + Lifts has helped businesses across North America create accessible spaces. From small professional offices to large commercial facilities, we understand the unique requirements of commercial accessibility. Here’s why businesses choose us:
- Comprehensive Solutions: From the Flex Lift platform lift to the Crystal commercial elevator, we offer solutions for virtually any commercial application.
- North American Manufacturing: Our local facility offers faster lead times than overseas competitors and easier access to parts and service.
- Smart Space Design: Pitless options and machine-room-less designs minimize construction complexity.
Ready to get started with your commercial elevator installation? Contact RAM for a free consultation. We’ll discuss your building, your requirements, and your goals—then help you understand which solutions make sense for your situation.