Is Your Bed & Breakfast Handicap Accessible?

Unless you have a disability or you are closely associated with someone that does, it can be easy to overlook the needs of those with a disability. This is a common mistake with small businesses such as a bed & breakfast. However, you can quickly turn that around just by becoming more aware of what is going on with them.

If you haven't already purchased the facility for your bed & breakfast, then you have the ability to carefully evaluate each location. You definitely want to keep the handicap accessibility issues at the front of your mind so that you will be able to meet the needs of all guests that inquire about your establishment. Take the time to evaluate the access of the bed & breakfast for those with a disability the best you can.

For those still looking at locations, you will want to examine the entryways. Is it going to be possible to get a full sized wheelchair to fit through them? You don't want someone to come to your bed & breakfast and then be restricted because of this. There are all sizes of wheelchairs out there and many of them are compact. If you offer enough room for a full sized wheelchair then everyone should be able to fit without any problems.

You can get someone with a disability to help you evaluate the possible bed & breakfast locations. You can also get assistance by contacting the American Disabilities Association. They will be glad to assist you with identifying any changes you may need to make your bed & breakfast handicap accessible. This particular organization is dedicated to promoting equality for those with disabilities.

Pay attention to the exterior of the facility as well. You may think the sidewalk is fine and then later discover it isn't wide enough for a person to easily move along in a wheelchair. All of these types of details are going to affects someone's ability to enjoy their stay at your bed & breakfast. Once you have made the necessary changes you will always be able to continue serving their needs.

Since many people enjoy being outdoors, your bed & breakfast needs to accommodate this as well. Having a wheelchair ramp for them to access the front ramp won't be enough. It is a very good place to start though. Make sure they can also access the other areas that you have to offer including a garden or a porch area is important.

You may not realize how much being handicap accessible is going to benefit your bed & breakfast. However, the larger market that you are able to reach, the more successful you will be. To help you be ready, you should ask the consumers when they make the reservation if they need any special accommodations.

While you are focusing on your guests, make sure you don't overlook the small things. A handicap accessible bed & breakfast isn't something you find everyday. You can be sure these satisfied guests will recommend your location to others with a disability as well. This type of publicity is certainly going to win you a loyal customer base. As a result, your bed & breakfast will continue to be profitable.

About the Author

Patti Rob writes about the Bed & Breakfast business. The challenges, myths and emerging trends for buying, running and operating a profitable Bed and Breakfast. This and other unique content 'Bed and Breakfast business' articles are available with free reprint rights.

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