Part M of the Building Regulations deals with access and use, requiring that buildings be designed so people, including those with disabilities, can access, use and move around them safely and independently. It applies to new buildings and, to a more limited extent depending on what is reasonable and practicable, to certain extensions and material alterations of existing buildings.
Part M of the Second Schedule to the Building Regulations covers access and use, requiring that adequate provision be made so that buildings are accessible and usable by people, including people with disabilities, whether they are visiting, working in, or living in the building. Technical Guidance Document M sets out detailed guidance on matters such as level or ramped approaches, accessible entrances, circulation space, sanitary facilities, and, for dwellings, visitability and adaptability features.
Requirements differ depending on building type: non-domestic buildings generally must meet fuller Part M standards for public and workplace access, while for dwellings the focus is often on reasonable provision for visitability and future adaptability rather than full accessibility of every feature. For extensions and material alterations to existing buildings, what is 'reasonable and practicable' is assessed in light of the physical constraints of the existing structure, meaning that requirements can be applied more flexibly than for a new build, though the underlying objective of improving accessibility still applies.
Disability access certificates are required from the local authority for certain categories of new buildings and works before construction, similar in concept to fire safety certificates, confirming the design meets Part M requirements; whether this applies to a specific project depends on its type and scale and should be checked with the local authority Building Control Section.