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DBI says it has two CAS-certified inspectors, outlines training and outreach plans for disability access
Summary
DBI staff told the Building Inspection Commission the department currently has two CAS-certified inspectors, is arranging training in October, and plans outreach to small businesses and property owners to reduce ADA-related surprises and lawsuits.
Tom Fessler, a pool inspector who said he recently passed CAS certification, told the Building Inspection Commission that "presently, there are two CAS-certified inspectors on staff at the Department of Building Inspection." He said the state law creating the CAS program took effect in July and that a sufficient number of CAS-certified staff needs to be in place by 2015.
Acting Director Huey described the department's role as primarily advisory: "Our intention is only to advisory role, don't want to go into all individual, small business to do all the inspection." He said Calvo training scheduled for October is "very extensive" and that the passing rate is "roughly about 30 percent." DBI staff said they do not expect to route every accessibility-related permit directly to CAS inspectors but will refer unusual or complex cases to staff with CAS expertise.
Commissioners pressed for clearer targets for how many inspectors should be trained; Fessler said a specific sufficient-number target has not been determined. Commissioners and DBI staff emphasized outreach and education, suggesting regular counter hours for accessibility inquiries and participation in neighborhood fairs and merchant meetings. Regina Dicondreese, director of the Office of Small Business, said a related workshop with Supervisor Carmen Chu and the Bar Association has been recorded for public access and noted pending state action (Senate Bill 1186 as reported to the governor) that could fund outreach if enacted.
Public commenters representing small property owners and merchants urged clearer guidance and earlier notice to avoid surprise lawsuits. Henry Kornilowicz said many small property owners and tenants are "not really aware" of ADA obligations and praised upcoming outreach efforts. Carl Schreier described a case in which a small restaurant owner faced a lawsuit over an unmentioned two-inch lip, saying such outcomes are "personal matter[s] for people" and urging practical help rather than penalties.
DBI said it is pursuing in-house training and anticipates bringing a vendor-approved CAS class to the department within about two months to expand internal capacity. The commission and staff agreed on outreach as a near-term priority; staff will return with further details about training enrollment and outreach scheduling.
