Roth IAMS, operating through FCAPX, undertook this project in October 2020 in collaboration with City Housing Hamilton (CHH). The project aimed to conduct a comprehensive Accessibility Assessment (AA) as part of a pilot program to enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of CHH’s housing facilities.

City Housing Hamilton (CHH) is committed to providing safe, well-maintained, and affordable housing that caters to the needs of all community members, especially individuals with disabilities. To further this mission, CHH engaged Roth IAMS to execute a pilot Accessibility Assessment encompassing two of their typical facilities: a low-rise and a high-rise apartment building.

Roth IAMS proposed a comprehensive approach that aligned with the technical criteria set by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) for accessible dwelling units, alongside compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). The project aimed to identify and address accessibility barriers while ensuring compliance with both CMHC and AODA standards, thereby fostering more inclusive housing environments.

Roth IAMS formulated a consolidated AA checklist integrating CMHC technical criteria, referencing the National Housing Strategy (NHS), Better Practice (BP), and CSA B651-18, alongside AODA standards. The assessment prioritized AODA compliance, particularly in instances where CSA B651-18 criteria fell short of AODA standards. The project encountered various constraints typical of such comprehensive assessments, including time constraints, budget limitations, and the need for meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy and effectiveness in identifying and addressing accessibility barriers.

The AA Accessibility Assessment pilot program undertaken by Roth IAMS in collaboration with City Housing Hamilton exemplifies a successful partnership aimed at enhancing accessibility and inclusivity within housing facilities. By integrating CMHC and AODA standards, the project not only identified and addressed accessibility barriers but also positioned CHH as a trailblazer in providing inclusive housing solutions. The success of this initiative underscores the importance of proactive measures in creating accessible environments that cater to the diverse needs of all community members.