A certified access specialist (CASP) is a person who has been tested and certified by the state that business owners can hire to assess accessibility. SB 1608 sets up a process whereby business owners can voluntarily hire a CASP to inspect their buildings to ensure compliance with disability access standards and obtain an inspection report as proof of inspection. A business implementing recommendations of a CASP would be entitled to a 90 day hold on any legal proceedings and is eligible for an early evaluation conference.

The Benefits Of Using A CASI CASp

When you use a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) who is a member of the Certified Access Specialist Institute (CASI), you get:

  • A CASp who is dedicated to furthering not just accessibility in the built environment but also understanding of accessibility laws and codes, so people understand not just the “hows” but also the “whys”.
  • A CASp who sees the benefit in working and collaborating with other CASps, to gain further knowledge and understanding, to standardize interpretations of gray areas of law and codes, and to provide an expert and unified voice to coordinate federal and state regulations.
  • A CASp with a support system of hundreds of other CASps, all willing to help each other, answer questions, as well as give interpretations and opinions.
  • A CASp with more opportunities for top notch training and continuing education, through both formal and informal discussions and seminars.
  • A CASp with access to an online community of other access specialists all over California.

When you use a CASI member CASp, you can be assured that you have hired someone with dedication to their profession, who is willing to put their expertise and knowledge to use for your benefit.

To learn more about the CASp Certification, please visit the Division of the State Architect website.