What accessibility features come as standard in new builds?

Modern new builds include baseline accessibility features required by building regulations. These are standard across all homes. However, many developers also offer homes specifically designed as accessible properties, which include additional features beyond the minimum requirements. This article explores both the mandatory standards and the optional enhancements that make homes truly accessible.

Entry and threshold accessibility

The entrance to a modern home sets the tone for accessibility. Under UK Building Regulations, the goal is level access rather than minimal steps.

Standard features (M4(1) Visitable)

• Level thresholds: Building regulations require the primary entrance to have a level threshold (a maximum upstand of 15mm). The single step is no longer the standard for new builds; a flat transition is required to assist those with limited mobility or prams.
• Clear opening widths: Rather than a fixed door size, regulations focus on the effective clear opening width. For a standard new build, this is typically a minimum of 775mm, depending on the angle of approach.

Accessible home enhancements (M4(2) & M4(3))

• Wider entrances: Homes built to M4(3) wheelchair standards require a minimum clear opening of 850mm to allow for larger power chairs.
• Weather protection: Accessible homes often feature a covered porch or canopy at the entrance to protect residents from the elements while they navigate locks.

Interior layout

UK regulations ensure that hallways and doors allow for basic movement, but dedicated accessible homes provide significantly more circulation space.

Standard features

• Minimum hallway width: The standard requirement is a minimum of 900mm. This allows for a person to walk comfortably but can be tight for a wheelchair user making a turn.

Accessible home enhancements

• Increased circulation space: Accessible dwellings (M4(3)) feature hallways of 1200mm or wider. This provides a turning circle (typically 1500mm) in key areas, allowing a wheelchair to pull a full 360-degree turn.
• Nib widths: Dedicated accessible homes ensure there is at least 300mm of clear space next to the leading edge of the door (the "nib"), allowing a wheelchair user to reach the handle without the door hitting their chair.

Bathroom design and features

All new UK homes must have a visitable toilet on the entrance level, but full accessibility requires more permanent fixtures.

Standard features

• Entrance level WC: All new homes must have a toilet on the ground floor (or the level containing the main living area) that is accessible to visitors.
• Wall strengthening: Regulations require that walls in bathrooms are strong enough to have grab bars fitted at a later date.

Accessible home enhancements

• Wet rooms: While standard homes have a tray based shower, accessible homes often feature a fully tanked wet room with a floor-level drain, eliminating the need to step over a shower lip.
• Ease of reach: Accessible bathrooms (M4(3)) mandate that the flush handle, toilet roll holder, and washbasin are all within a specific reach zone from a seated position.

Kitchen accessibility

Modern kitchens meet building standards for safety. Accessible kitchens are designed for independence during food preparation.

Standard features

• Good lighting: Task and ambient lighting is standard.
• Functional layout: Worktops and storage follow standard ergonomic heights.

Accessible home enhancements

• Adjustable worktops: Some counter heights are designed to accommodate seated users.
• Knee space under sinks: Allows wheelchair users to get closer and work comfortably.
• Varied counter heights: Accessible kitchens often feature multiple counter heights for different tasks and users.
• Lever style handles: Replace traditional knobs on doors and cabinets for easier operation.
• Strategic appliance placement: Ovens and microwaves are positioned at mid-height (eye level) to avoid the need for bending or reaching.

Staircase and multi-level considerations

Building regulations set safety standards for stairs in all homes. Accessible homes may provide alternatives.

Standard safety features

• Handrails: Required on at least one side of stairs.
• Consistent step dimensions: Uniform step height and depth prevent trips and falls.
• Adequate lighting: Stairwells are well-lit for visibility.

Accessible home enhancements

• Handrails on both sides: Provide extra stability and support.
• Contrasting edges: Darker edges on steps improve visibility and safety.
• Space for lift installation: Accessible homes include space or provisions for future stair lift or lift installation.
• Ground floor bedroom and bathroom: Some accessible homes feature all essential rooms on one level, eliminating stairs entirely.

Electrical and switch placement

Standard features

• The Reach Zone: To comply with Part M, all switches and sockets in new builds must be located between 450mm and 1200mm from the finished floor level.

Accessible home enhancements

• Enhanced contrast: Switches often feature a contrasting colour to the wall (e.g., brushed chrome on a white wall) to assist those with visual impairments.
• Socket positioning: In dedicated accessible homes, sockets are often moved further away from room corners (at least 350mm) to ensure they aren't blocked by furniture and remain reachable.

Flooring and surfaces

Standard features

• Level transitions: Building regulations require minimal variation between room surfaces to prevent tripping hazards.
• Non-slip surfaces: Kitchen and bathroom flooring meets safety standards.

Accessible home enhancements

• Seamless transitions: Completely level surfaces throughout the home.
• Low-pile carpeting or hard flooring: These choices are easier to navigate with mobility aids.

Lighting and visual accessibility

Building regulations require adequate lighting for safety and functionality. Accessible homes often include enhanced features.

Standard features

• Adequate illumination: All areas of the home meet minimum lighting standards.
• Natural light: Windows provide daylight in main living spaces.

Accessible home enhancements

• Bright, even illumination: Extra lighting reduces shadows and dark corners.
• Generous windows and skylights: Maximise natural light for wayfinding and mood.
• High contrast décor: Light walls against darker doors and fixtures improve visibility.
• Dimmable lighting: Allows residents to adjust brightness according to preference and need.

Emergency egress and safety

Building regulations set mandatory safety standards for all new homes.

• Safe means of escape: Modern homes include fire-protected routes and escape compliant windows from bedrooms.
• Easy door operation: Doors open easily and can be operated with minimal force.
• Fire safety systems: Accessible alarms and evacuation routes.
• Clear pathways: Accessible homes ensure emergency routes are completely unobstructed.

Parking and external access

Building regulations cover parking in multi-unit developments. Dedicated accessible homes may include additional features.

Standard features

• Paved pathways: Even surfaces connecting parking to entrances.
• Level parking areas: For multi-unit developments, parking meets basic accessibility standards.

Accessible home enhancements

• Dedicated accessible parking: Close to entrances with adequate width for transferring from vehicles.
• Rest areas: Benches or seating along longer routes.
• Smooth, well-maintained surfaces: Driveways and pathways are completely level.

Part M4(1) Visitable standards offer baseline accessibility. Dedicated accessible homes provide comprehensive design that prioritises independence and adaptability. When choosing a new home, you can ask your developer which category your property falls into.

Either way, the shift toward more accessible homes reflects a simple truth: thoughtful design benefits everyone. A zero-step entry helps a wheelchair user, a parent with a pushchair, and an elderly person carrying shopping. Wide hallways feel spacious. Good lighting improves safety. These features create homes that work better for all residents.

Modern building codes vary by region and country. Always verify local accessibility standards and regulations for your specific area. This article provides general guidance on contemporary best practices in residential construction.

Disclaimer

newhomesforsale.co.uk is a property portal and not a financial advisor, mortgage broker or mortgage lender. Always seek independent financial advice before making significant decisions about your money, mortgages or purchasing a property.

All information included in our articles is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. However, any references to dates, prices and availability are subject to change without notice.

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Publish date 6th May, 2026
Reading time: 4 minutes
Written by Vicki England

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