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Yesterday I did an inspection on a new construction in Warren NJ.
This was what the kitchen sink looked like. I never saw this before. Have any one here know why this is like this?
I asked the builder, he told my the reason. What do you think he said?
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Wheelchair accessible?
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This 
…
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Thomas, your right. he said it was for ADA requirements.
First time seeing this.
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So are shorter than average countertops and wider interior doors…
I know a custom home builder that will build houses that are completely wheelchair friendly.
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I have seen this in new car dealerships and other recent commercial buildings. It also hides the hoses and electronics for the automatic faucets. There are usually a couple of easy slide latches for removal of the panel during servicing.
For those that are not used to dealing with ADA concerns…
This quote of 606.5 only hints (infers) at an added risk, without actually stating it…
BURNS… to not only the knees, but also to the legs!
Many wheelchair bound persons have diminished sensations in their legs, and can’t necessarily feel Heat (or Cold) in said extremities!
If you ever wish to comment on any ADA conditions, be certain to choose your wording carefully!
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Interesting. They said “insulated,” not padded.
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Like I said… Be careful how you word things with ADA concerns. HUGE difference in applications!
That is either a mistake with whomever transcribed the requirement, or changes were made to the original ‘code’, or overlooked and needs correcting. There are so many copies of the ADA Codes floating around, ya gotta be careful which version and source you reference.
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Was this a multifamily dwelling?
Interesting, I’ve never seen this configuration in a house either.
Thanks for posting, Peter!
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Not in a standard ‘tract home’, but very common in Custom Homes, and often ones that have an ADU.
IMO, as our population ‘ages’, these homes (built or renovated) will become more and more common.
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Not sure about other parts of the country, but around here ADA requirements for handicap ramps have changed quite a few times over the years. Especially on city street intersections and at commercial property entrances.
I can’t even count how many I have replaced myself since the mid '90s. It’s back breaking work, but pays good…
Never seen that configuration under a kitchen sink before.
I was going to say, custom cabinetry design, so an individual can get closer to the sink to prevent splashes or spills.
This was a single family dwelling in Warren NJ.
Interesting article. The builder could do this to accommodate potential buyers, but is not required to unless possibly the local jurisdiction requires it, which may be overstepping on their part.
At one time New Jersey has their own version of the ADA called the Barrier Free Subcode and I believe that they still do. Single and two families were exempt from the barrier free requirements so they were optional. I don’t know if that has changed.
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ADA is for public accommodation. A private homeowner can install anything they wish. The ADA standards may provide some guidance. i.e., grab rail placement, knee protection, door swing, etc.
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This also falls in line with “Aging in Place”…
Thus…
And…
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