Wheelchair access and patio (part M)

[iMCaan]

Hi

 

Due to financial constraints, I will be undertaking the upcoming external works on a self-build/DIY basis. 

 

To achieve building regulations sign-off, the immediate priority is to satisfy the compliance requirements for Part M (Access to and use of buildings). Specifically, this entails constructing a compliant wheelchair-accessible (no wheelchair user in the family) entrance at the front elevation and a raised patio at the rear elevation.

 

Given the extensive nature of the external works, my strategy is to execute the absolute minimum scope required to secure regulatory approval. This will allow the remaining landscaping works to be phased and completed at a later date.

 

Front Entrance (Accessible Route): Installation of an ACO threshold drain, lay weed membrane, MOT Type 1 subbase, and lay paving slabs flush with the front door sill to provide a level threshold.

Rear Patio: Construction of a structural retaining wall, installation of an ACO drain against the house, lay weed membrane, lay and compact MOT Type 1 sub-base one step below the bi-fold door threshold. (Leave paving for later)

 

I have no external work experience.

 

I welcome your guidance, comments and suggestions.

 

Thanks

[JohnMo]

5 minutes ago, iMCaan said:

Front Entrance (Accessible Route): Installation of an ACO threshold drain, lay weed membrane, MOT Type 1 subbase, and lay paving slabs flush with the front door sill to provide a level threshold.

You also will need to a ramp down to your parking area from that. I just made a very shallow incline direct from parking area to the level threshold in paving slabs.

 

Never found weed suspension membrane to work. The weed are generally blown on the wind and find their way in from above.

[iMCaan]

Thanks for that @JohnMo

Any suggestions for edging?

[JohnMo]

We don't have edge as such. Small step down to gravel

 

[ETC]

Don’t forget that the Regulations only require “reasonable access”.

Well compacted hardcore and blinding is in my opinion “reasonable access” and as long as a wheelchair user can get to your Principal Entrance this should be acceptable.

[mjc55]

My understanding is that disabled access is required only to the principle entrance.

[iMCaan]

Thanks all.

 

@JohnMo perfect. Thanks for the photo. I think I can just copy this design. A platform outside the front door and footpaths leading to the driveways.

 

The front door is the principle entrance. 

 

Always wanted the raised patio.

The building regs officer said either to raise the patio or to put steps in front of the bi-folding doors. I will hardcore the patio and compact it so it's just a step below the bi-folding doors. This will give us enough depth to play with in case if we want to have the patio level with inside floor.

 

 

[Temp]

No level access was need at the rear of ours, just the front door. Love it now.

[JohnMo]

4 hours ago, mjc55 said:

My understanding is that disabled access is required only to the principle entrance.

Only one access point needed. But we have flat access to every door, either on to decking or patio. But whole house is single storey so why not. Nice future proof, you never know what's ahead of you or your family.