Selling a Brisbane Hotel: How to Describe Accessibility Accurately

“Fully accessible” can look like an attractive phrase in a hotel advertisement. It also leaves important questions unanswered. Can a guest reach reception without steps? Which rooms have particular bathroom features? Is the restaurant reached by the same route? When selling a Brisbane hotel, accurate accessibility information helps a purchaser understand the property and the operation they may inherit.

Use specific descriptions, supported by current evidence, so readers can assess the features themselves.

Describe the guest journey

Start with arrival and follow the route through the hotel: parking, entrance, reception, lifts, corridors, bedrooms, bathrooms and shared facilities. Describe each relevant part separately. Access to one area does not establish access throughout the property.

Record facts such as entrance steps, alternative routes, door clear openings, lift dimensions and bathroom layout. Use photographs that show the route and relevant features clearly. State when measurements were taken and by whom; do not convert informal measurements into a claim of certified compliance.

Queensland’s accessible tourism resources include a venue access information template and a built environment checklist. They also recognise access requirements involving mobility, hearing, vision and sensory needs. These resources provide a useful starting point for gathering information beyond wheelchair access alone. Business Queensland

Make room information specific

A room advertised with accessibility features should be identifiable within the room inventory. Explain its location, route from reception and available features. Depending on what exists, useful details might include shower configuration, grab rails, bed clearance or a connecting room.

Distinguish fixed features from equipment supplied on request. If equipment is hired externally, explain the arrangement and any availability conditions. Do not suggest it is included in the sale unless the asset schedule or contract supports that statement.

Also check how reservations are handled. Can staff identify the correct room category? Are relevant photographs available? Is a guest encouraged to discuss individual requirements before booking? A purchaser needs to see how the description translates into everyday service.

Separate observed features from compliance conclusions

A hotel inspection can establish that a ramp or lift exists. It cannot automatically establish compliance with every applicable access requirement.

Queensland Government building access guidance also explains that the Premises Standards apply to relevant new buildings and upgrades, and provides guidance on their application. The implications for an individual hotel require consideration of its circumstances and the relevant rules. Sellers should obtain professional advice rather than infer compliance from a building’s age or appearance. Business Queensland

Collect available building approvals, access reports and records of relevant alterations. Identify the scope and date of each document. An assessment of particular works should not be presented as a comprehensive endorsement of the entire property. Ask an appropriately qualified access consultant and building adviser to review uncertainties.

Keep sales material and guest advertising consistent

Compare the information memorandum with the hotel website, booking channels and staff descriptions. If different platforms make different claims, resolve the discrepancy before launching the campaign.

The ACCC advises that business claims should be accurate, truthful and supported by reasonable grounds. It also warns that qualifications in fine print must not contradict the advertisement’s overall message. ACCC

Avoid a headline promising universal access followed by a quiet explanation that some facilities involve stairs. Put material limitations beside the relevant feature. Present proposed improvements as proposals, with their approval status and costs unverified unless supported by current evidence.

Is an access information sheet the same as an audit?

No. A factual information sheet describes features and operating arrangements. A professional access assessment examines matters within its agreed scope. Give buyers both where available, clearly labelled, and let their advisers assess suitability and compliance.

For Brisbane hotel sellers, this preparation creates a more useful conversation about the existing asset, operational responsibilities and any further investigation needed.

Discuss your Brisbane hotel sale

Contact Norton’s Resort Brokers for a confidential discussion about selling your hotel or accommodation business. Email nortons.re@gmail.com to discuss how verified property information can support your sale campaign.

Disclaimer: This article is general information, not legal, building certification or accessibility advice. Features, obligations and suitability vary between properties and individuals. Sellers and buyers should independently verify claims and obtain advice from qualified legal, building and access professionals.