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Did you know that there is an obligation to install a lift in old buildings? Indeed, the regulations in force in some countries, including Spain, make it imperative to constantly improve vertical mobility systems, for the benefit of people with reduced mobility.
In addition, with the aim of eliminating architectural barriers, i.e. those physical elements that prevent users from moving easily, as well as ensuring universal access and equal opportunities in the use of buildings, the adaptation of mobility solutions emerges as a crucial priority for both modern and old buildings.
Obligation to install elevators in old buildings: What you need to know!
Installing a lift in old buildings represents an opportunity to improve the quality of life of the people who frequent the building or who live in it. In terms of convenience, it can move users from one place to another in a matter of seconds, making it easy to access all areas.
In turn, it contributes to the revaluation of the property, giving it a higher value in the market. Although the elevator itself does not determine the price, it is an indirect benefit of the installation that favors the value at the time of commercializing the space.
In relation to the rehabilitation work of buildings, especially in the case of old ones, including the installation of lifts is essential to improve the functionality of the place and guarantee accessibility for users. Often, these improvements are accompanied by the reform of a community portal, which allows a comprehensive adaptation of common spaces to ensure more comfortable and safe access for all residents.”
On a general level, there is no generalized legal obligation to install a lift in old buildings, however, there are cases in which this installation becomes necessary, according to case law, in the installation of a lift in a community. This legal framework is key in situations where accessibility is a determining factor.
When does the obligation to install a lift in old buildings materialise?
Considering important regulatory aspects such as Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and their Social Inclusion, the Universal Accessibility Law, the Technical Building Code, the Law on the Promotion of Accessibility and the Elimination of Barriers and Among others, the installation of an elevator in old buildings becomes mandatory when:
People over 70 years of age or with disabilities live, work or provide services
This is the first case in which the mandatory installation of lifts materialises. According to the regulations of the Horizontal Property Law, owners must carry out the works that are necessary to guarantee the accessibility and mobility of these people.
In this context, the universal right of access and mobility of elderly or people with reduced mobility is a priority, since the lack of an elevator can represent a significant barrier to their autonomy and quality of life.
The installation of an elevator in old buildings involves a series of expenses. As they are not modern structures, they do not always have enough space for the incorporation of vertical mobility solutions, so a prior evaluation must be made to analyze the feasibility of the project. This assessment includes a structural analysis of the building, the identification of possible locations for the elevator and the necessary adaptation of the common and service areas.
Most of the building's owners vote in favor of the installation
Another case in which the installation of a lift is mandatory is when the majority of the owners vote in favour of this measure at a community meeting. Generally, a consultation is made and the project is approved if the qualified majority, represented by a majority of the participation quotas, decides to carry out the installation.
For example, if it were a community of owners made up of 100 residents in total, 50 votes in favour are needed to approve the lift installation project. But, in addition, it is necessary that this number of votes is reflected, in the same way, in the majority of the participation quotas.
Participation fees are the percentage that each neighbor has in a community of owners, and are generally determined according to the size of the home. That is, those who have larger properties have higher participation rates.
Building accessibility and the annual cost passed on
The installation of a lift in old buildings is mandatory when the work is necessary to ensure the accessibility of the property, especially in cases where elderly people, people with reduced mobility or people with disabilities live, work or visit.
According to the Horizontal Property Law, the annual cost shared among the owners for the installation of the lift must be less than 12 ordinary monthly installments of common expenses. This implies that if the annual fee that each owner must assume does not exceed this limit, the work is mandatory and must be carried out, even if some owners are against it.
Subsidies for installing elevators in old buildings
Installing a lift in an older building can be a big investment for homeowners. To facilitate this process and alleviate the economic burden, the autonomous communities offer a series of subsidies and grants to install a lift, designed to financially support lift installation projects, thus ensuring that the properties comply with current accessibility regulations.
Exist:
- Government-driven subsidies that cover a percentage of the total amount of work required.
- Regional programmes managed by the Autonomous Communities
- Tax rebates or deductions in the Property Tax.
- Loans with financing options
Are you looking for a supplier to comply with the obligation to install elevators in old buildings? Aszende is your ally for this project!
With more than 45 years of experience with vertical mobility systems, Aszende is a leading company in the elevator installation, maintenance and modernization sector. We have a great track record and specialized technicians, which endorses us as a benchmark in the industry.
In addition, we offer solutions that ensure safety and efficiency in the vertical transport of residential, commercial and industrial buildings. We become your trusted provider to consolidate mobility in your building.
Contact us and we will help you comply with the obligation to install elevators in old buildings. We adapt to your needs.
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