Website Accessibility Checklist (WCAG)

According to WHO, over 15% of the world's population has a disability. If your website is inaccessible, you're not only losing potential clients but also creating barriers for millions of people.

To help you make your website more inclusive, I’ve prepared an accessibility checklist (WCAG). Use it to quickly assess whether your website meets basic accessibility standards.

1. Text Contrast:

  • Ensure the text has sufficient contrast with the background (AA level: minimum 4.5:1).
  • Check the contrast of buttons, links, and headings.

2. Alternative Text (Alt Text):

  • All images have descriptive alt text.
  • Decorative images are marked as decorative (alt=“”).
  • Avoid phrases like “image of” or “photo of.”

3. Form Labels:

  • All form fields have clear, understandable labels.
  • Labels are associated with their respective fields using the "for" attribute.
  • Provide instructions for filling out fields where necessary.

4. Heading Structure:

  • Use a logical hierarchy of headings (H1, H2, H3, etc.).
  • Headings accurately describe the content of each section.
  • Avoid skipping heading levels (e.g., H1 → H3 without H2).

5. Keyboard Navigation:

  • The website is fully navigable using only the keyboard (Tab, Shift+Tab, Enter).
  • A visible focus indicator is present when navigating with the keyboard.
  • No “keyboard traps” where a user can’t exit an element.

6. Interactive Elements:

  • Buttons and links have clear, descriptive text (not just icons).
  • All interactive elements work with assistive technologies.
  • Use ARIA attributes (e.g., aria-label) where additional descriptions are needed.

7. Readability:

  • Text is easy to read, using plain language.
  • Users can increase the font size without losing interface functionality.
  • Adequate line spacing improves readability.

8. Video & Multimedia:

  • Videos have captions or text transcripts.
  • Audio content includes descriptions of visual elements (audio descriptions).
  • Users can pause or mute multimedia content.

9. HTML Structure:

  • Semantic HTML tags are used (header, nav, main, footer).
  • Correct ARIA roles are applied to complex elements.
  • The page follows a logical reading order for screen readers.

 

Tools for Website Accessibility Testing in a

 

Why Is This Important?

Website accessibility is not just about inclusivity. It also:

  • Enhances SEO and improves usability for all users.
  • Expands your audience and attracts new clients.
  • Ensures compliance with international standards and legal regulations.

Need Help?

Do you need to analyze your website’s accessibility or implement changes?
Contact me—I’ll help make your website accessible for everyone!