Approved document Part M 2004 edition and checklist

From 1 May 2004 the revised edition of the Building Regulations 2000 Access To And Use Of Buildings Approved Document Part M came into effect. This is possibly the most significant change in the building regulations in terms of access for disabled people since the introduction of Part M in 1987.

 

 

This edition of Part M brings the technical requirements in the regulations in line with the recommendations of BS8300:2001 Design Of Buildings And Their Approaches To Meet The Needs Of Disabled People. This is a far more exacting standard than the existing minimum standards currently in use. There have been no changes made to the technical requirements that apply to dwellings.

 

As well as the changes in the technical requirements there have also been significant amendments to where these regulations will apply. The most significant change is likely to be the application of the regulations to material alterations. Part M may now apply when a building is altered, in addition to when a new building is being built or an existing building is extended. The duty not to make access for disabled people worse during building work will now also apply to dwellings.

 

The revised Part M also introduces the concept of a Design and Access Statement - DAS which will be required when plans are submitted. The DAS should outline the philosophy and approach to inclusive design taken by the developer and indicate any advice or guidance used in developing the plans for the development. Attending to access issues at the design stage will help to integrate universal design features into the building at the earliest opportunity.

 

 

We have prepared a useful Part M checklist which may be used to help ensure any proposed works comply with the relevant requirements of the new approved document. For more information contact our Access Officer. You can also see a copy of the Approved Document Part M.