Are lifts in residential buildings just a modern luxury or a vital necessity?
Have you ever considered what makes a lift legally required in an apartment block or multi-storey home? Do terms like accessibility compliance, minimum lift size, or building code leave you unsure where to begin?
If you’re planning a new build, renovating an older structure, or managing a residential complex, understanding lift requirements in residential buildings is essential. It’s not just about convenience—it’s about legal standards, safety, and inclusivity.
This blog will explore the most up-to-date residential building lift standards, from fire safety and disabled access to lift dimensions, installation rules, and regulatory compliance across the UK.
At Arrival Lifts Ltd, we specialise in professional lift services tailored to meet the specific requirements of residential buildings. From ensuring accessibility compliance to aligning with the latest building codes and lifting safety standards, we provide maintenance, servicing, and repairs that support performance and peace of mind.
Call us on 0208 544 4888 or email us at enquiries@arrivallifts.com today!
At Arrival Lifts Ltd, we elevate your residential building's safety and accessibility with lift solutions built for everyday living. From precise installation to ongoing compliance and maintenance, we ensure your lifts serve every resident with confidence and care.
Residential Building Lift Standards: What The Law Requires
While there’s no rule forcing every building to have a lift, there are several conditions under which a lift becomes mandatory in residential properties.
According to current UK Building Regulations (Part M and Part B) and BS EN 81 standards, the following requirements typically apply:
1. Multi-Storey Building Lift Requirements
- Buildings with four storeys or more usually require at least one passenger lift.
- In complexes where flats are accessed above the ground floor, a lift is strongly advised to meet accessibility obligations.
2. Accessibility Requirements For Lifts
- Disabled access in residential buildings must be considered under the Equality Act 2010.
- Lifts should be able to accommodate a wheelchair user, with minimum lift size standards set at 1100mm x 1400mm.
- Controls must be at an accessible height and clearly labelled in tactile or Braille formats.
3. Building Code For Lifts In Residential Buildings
- All lifts must comply with EN 81-70 (Accessibility to lifts for everyone, including people with disability).
- Fire safety and lifts are also covered under Part B of Building Regulations, requiring fire-rated lift shafts and emergency evacuation planning.
Lift Installation Rules In Residential Complexes
Understanding installation requirements is key when planning a new development or upgrade.
- Lift installation must follow CDM regulations, with thorough risk assessments and qualified contractors.
- Sound insulation is often required between lift shafts and habitable rooms.
- Lifts must meet ongoing lift maintenance in housing regulations, ensuring they are inspected regularly and remain safe to operate.
If you’re unsure about the full scope of compliance, working with an experienced residential lift company can help you navigate building control, planning permissions, and technical requirements from day one.
Lift Types And Space: What Fits Where?
When choosing a lift for your building, the available space, resident needs, and intended use will guide your decision. Common residential lift types include:
1. Passenger Lift Vs. Service Lift
- Passenger lifts are designed for people and must meet comfort, noise, and safety expectations.
- Service lifts (or goods lifts) are primarily for transporting items and typically do not meet accessibility requirements.
2. Minimum Lift Size For Residential Use
- As mentioned, the general UK standard is 1100mm x 1400mm internal car size.
- For wheelchair-accessible lifts, door widths of at least 800mm are necessary.
Explore different types of lifts to see which one suits your project best.
Top Considerations When Installing A Residential Lift
Here are six key tips to ensure your lift complies with all the essential standards while serving residents effectively:
1. Prioritise Accessibility From The Start
Design your building layout with lift accessibility compliance in mind because retrofitting later is more complex and costly.
2. Choose The Right Location
Centralise the lift location to allow easy access from all flats or floors, especially in larger apartment blocks.
3. Think Long-Term Safety And Maintenance
Plan routine lift maintenance in housing to prevent breakdowns and extend the lift’s lifespan.
4. Select A Reputable Lift Supplier
Partner with a trusted residential lift company with experience in domestic and apartment installations.
5. Understand Fire Safety Rules
Install fire-rated lift doors and ensure the lift is part of the building’s fire evacuation strategy.
6. Consider Installation Costs Upfront
The full lift installation cost includes site preparation, structural modifications, and ongoing servicing.
CONTACT ARRIVAL LIFTS
Need Help Choosing The Right Lift?
Whether you’re deciding between a passenger or service lift, planning an accessible apartment block, or upgrading an older building, expert guidance is key.
Explore how to choose the exemplary lift service for your project and ensure every resident benefits from safe, compliant access.
Partner With Arrival Lifts Ltd To Ensure Residential Lift Compliance And Performance
Meeting the lift requirements in residential buildings isn’t just about following regulations. It is about safeguarding residents, supporting accessibility, and maintaining long-term performance. But even the best-installed lift needs ongoing care to remain safe, efficient, and legally compliant.
That’s where lift cleaning and maintenance come into play. Keeping your lift clean is about more than just appearances. It directly impacts safety standards, reduces wear and tear, and leaves a strong impression on every resident, guest, or potential buyer who steps inside.
At Arrival Lifts Ltd, we go beyond quick fixes. Our proactive maintenance plans are built around preventative care, tailored solutions, and thorough inspections that help you avoid issues. Every year, you’ll receive a detailed condition report with expert insights and practical recommendations, helping you maintain full compliance with building code standards for lifts in residential buildings.
So, if you’re ready to improve lift reliability and extend the life of your system, we’re ready to help.
Contact us today to schedule your first inspection and discover how we can support your residential building with lift services that combine performance, safety, and peace of mind.