Identifying accessibility issues is only the first step. Enforcement actions focus on what you did after you learned about the problems. That is why remediation documentation is central to ADA defense. Courts, DOJ staff, and plaintiff attorneys look for dated evidence showing you fixed issues and maintained progress.
This guide explains exactly what documentation to keep so your remediation efforts are credible, structured, and defensible.
**Important Note:** This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult qualified ADA counsel for guidance specific to your organization.
→ Need a documented baseline? Get a Good Faith Compliance Certificate to establish your assessment date.
1) Maintain a Remediation Issue Log
• Issue description
• WCAG success criterion
• Severity or user impact
• Date identified
• Owner or responsible team
• Target resolution date
• Resolution date
Why it matters: A structured log proves a process, not just a one-off fix. It helps show good faith in both settlements and litigation.
2) Capture Before/After Evidence
• Screenshots of the issue before and after
• Validation scans showing issue resolved
• Manual testing notes for key workflows
• QA sign-off or accessibility review tickets
Why it matters: Courts look for verification. Before/after evidence proves that remediation occurred and was validated.
3) Document Timelines and Priorities
• Remediation plan with phases
• Priority justifications (e.g., critical forms, public services)
• Dependencies and vendor constraints
• Timeline adjustments with reasons
Why it matters: Even if remediation is not complete, a documented plan shows you are moving in the right direction.
4) Track Training and Process Updates
• Training completion for staff responsible for fixes
• Updated content guidelines (PDFs, alt text, headings)
• Process changes that prevent recurring issues
Why it matters: Repeated violations suggest systemic failure. Training documentation shows you addressed root causes.
5) Compile a Remediation Evidence Packet
• Baseline audit report
• Remediation plan and issue log
• Evidence of fixes
• Training and policy records
• Updated audits showing improvement
Why it matters: If a demand letter arrives, you can provide a clear package of evidence that supports a good-faith defense.
Get a Documented Compliance Baseline
The Government Compliance Action Kit provides a compliance certificate and remediation guidance to help establish your documentation record.
Get the Compliance Action KitRemediation documentation is the difference between a defensible compliance effort and a vague promise. Keep issue logs, capture before/after evidence, document timelines, and store all related training and policy updates. These records show courts and regulators that you acted in good faith and continue to improve accessibility.