Roof deck and ADA compliance?

Our mid rise co-op has a fair amount of roof space with a really nice view. We’d like to add a roof deck, however our Engineer has informed us that we can not because it would have to be ADA compliant. There is no elevator to the roof (one flight of stairs from the PH floor to the roof). We are told it would be cost prohibitive ($1M) to add access that would be ADA compliant. Are there any alternative approaches that anyone is aware of? It’s such a waste of great space that all shareholders would benefit from. I’ve been on other roofs that don’t have elevator access. Is there a way to get this done without elevator access? Thanks for any advice!

llg43

in Roofing 11 years ago

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JorgeF | 11 years ago

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I think your engineer is mistaken. If you want a second opinion I am an architect feel free to call me 917 575 0747, Jorge.

llg43 | 11 years ago

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Hi Arch007, what do ADA laws say about co-op roof decks? Thanks!

arch007 | 11 years ago

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your engineer does not understand ADA laws. http://nyc-dob.com

llg43 | 11 years ago

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There is an elevator to the floor below. I am not the top floor owner. There are multiple top floor owners who have their own terraces already. Personally since there is no public outdoor space within the immediate surrounding area I would use a roof deck often. Our building has no other space available to turn into an amenity. The roof deck is the only place we have to add an amenity. It’s a shame not to be able to take advantage of it because it can’t be made ADA compliant. Even though I am not the top floor owner could I maybe still buy the roof rights? Or could a group of us buy the roof rights? Would that still put us back to the same ADA problem? Thanks!

resident2 | 11 years ago

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I have sat on many co-op & condo boards. In reality if there is no elevator to the roof or at least the floor below the roof, it does not get used that much, after the initial thrill of having it! Except by the people occupying the top floor. It is a very expensive proposition, not only to build it, but to maintain it as well. Most buildings have better things to invest their money in than a roof deck for the top floor owner! If you are the top floor owner; (?) why not buy the roof rights, then you can build your own roof deck and maintain it at your own expense. And you will not need an elevator.