What is Visitability?

Visitability is a home construction and design approach that incorporates basic accessibility into all newly-built homes and housing. It's thinking about home construction so that anyone can visit anyone else's home.

When visitability features are pre-installed, homeowners and guests, regardless of age or disability, can enjoy the home without having to make significant modifications. Even more important, as homeowners age, they can live in their home longer, rather than be forced to move because of significant barriers.

A visitable home has:

• An entrance without steps
• Wider Interior doorways and hallways on the main level (doors are 36 inches wide, allowing 34 inches of clear passage)
• A bathroom on the main level with space for a wheelchair to maneuver

Optional features can include:

• Light switches, thermostats, and other environmental controls no higher than 48”
• Wall outlets and receptacles 15” above finished floor
• Lever handles instead of door knobs
• Hallways wide enough to navigate through (minimal 36”—42”)

Why a visitable home with benefit you:

CONVENIENCE - It's a snap to move large items. No more struggling with luggage. Roll in the stroller. Sprained Ankle? No problem!

FLEXIBILITY - Be ready for all of life's seasons

HOSPITALITY - Never have to exclude friends and family with mobility limitations from visiting your home

MARKETABILITY - Build a house with features home buyers and renters want, without losing "curb appeal

Pre-installed visitability spares homeowners the expense of later renovations. It's an affordable design approach that supports lifestyle changes and enhances the resale value of the home.

Important Links

Link to Visitability PodCast

Link to Visitability flyer

Link to Visitability brochure

Other Helpful Resources

Concrete Change

National Resource Center on Supportive Housing and Home Modification

IDEA Center

National Association of Home Builders