Regulations and Legislation

Building Regulations 2000 / Part M 2004 (Access to and use of buildings)

In almost all cases these regulations, and the accompanying Approved Document M, will provide the most relevant and up-to-date advice on what is required. The regulations apply to all new non-domestic buildings and, since May 2004, to material alterations and extensions to existing buildings.

Part M also applies to all newly constructed housing. Separate guidance is provided in Approved Document M.

Approved Document M gives practical advice on what is required. Any person undertaking a development to which these regulations apply is strongly advised to refer to this document.

To download the Approved Document Part M, click the link at the bottom of this page.

All Building Control applications will need to be accompanied by an Access Statement. For further advice on Building Control, click the link under Related Information on the right-hand side of this page. For more details on Access Statements, click the link in the main navigation list on the left side of this page.

The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA)

The Act ensures rights for people who have a disability. Employers and providers of goods and services must take reasonable measures to ensure that they do not discriminate against disabled people. These measures include the removal of physical barriers, such as steps, and the provision of auxiliary aids that will assist disabled people to gain access to and use the buildings facilities. Works to improve access as part of a development project will assist an employer or service provider in meeting their duties under the DDA.

The Disability Rights Commission has produced a guidance document for service providers, "2004: What It Means To You". Download it by clicking the link below.