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In today’s society, accessibility is an issue in the spotlight of public opinion. With the aim of making buildings accessible to everyone, there are a range of rules and regulations in Spain that seek to guarantee this universally in both public and private spaces. This is the case for buildings and lifts. Below, we will answer the question of when it is compulsory to install a lift and why.
Current mandatory regulations for vertical transport: When is it compulsory to install a lift?
In Spain, it is necessary to refer to the Horizontal Property Law in order to answer this question. According to this, it is compulsory to install a lift in a residential block if any of the following characteristics are met:
- A new building is constructed with more than four storeys in total.
- In the case of complete refurbishment of an existing building which is more than four storeys high.
- When people over 70 years of age or people with disabilities live in the residential block.
Installation in new buildings
In addition to the above, we should point out that all newly constructed buildings in Spain that exceed a certain number of floors must include in their plans the spaces for the installation of a lift. According to regulation A.010 of the Spanish National Building Regulations, the installation of lifts is compulsory when there is a common circulation level that is 12 linear metres above the level of the entrance to the building from the pavement. This means that it is mandatory to install at least one lift in a five-storey building.
Majority voting and the installation of lifts
In addition to the height of the building, one of the factors taken into account when considering when it is mandatory to install a lift is what is known as the majority vote. There is a common misconception that a majority vote is the only way to achieve the installation of a lift, but this is not entirely true.
What we must bear in mind is that, in a residential block, one of two scenarios is necessary to drive through the installation of a lifting device: that there is a favourable vote of the majority of the owners or that a person over 70 years of age, or with a disability or with reduced mobility who resides or works in the building submits the application.
In the latter case, when it is a person with a disability, reduced mobility or over 70 years of age who requires it, because they either live or work in the building, it is no longer necessary to submit the decision to a vote among the neighbours. This, however, provided that the cost of such an installation does not exceed twelve ordinary monthly payments of common expenses. At the same time, the installation cost depends on the participation coefficient of the individual dwellings.
Step-by-step instructions for how to install a lift in a building
Now that we have seen when it is compulsory to install a lift in a building, we want to tell you, step by step, how to do it. The first step is the submission of the application to the homeowner’s association by an applicant. According to the Horizontal Property Law, the installation of common elements requires a qualified majority at the owners’ meeting, with the exceptions mentioned above. Whether or not there is a majority vote, it is recommended that a clear proposal be presented that includes both the benefits and costs associated with the procedure.
Requirements for installing a lift
Secondly, before proceeding with the installation of the lift, an assessment of whether the building meets the structural and technical requirements is necessary. This may include urban planning and technical feasibility studies, as well as obtaining the relevant permits from local authorities.
At the same time, it is important to consider the accessibility of the common areas and to ensure that the installation complies with current regulations regarding safety and access to the lift itself for people with reduced mobility.
Choosing an installer
Finally, when installing a lift in a building, it is always recommended that you choose anexperienced installer with a solid reputation in order to guarantee the success of the project. In addition, many lift companies also offer lift maintenance services to ensure that the lifts function properly over time.
In this scenario, the company Aszende stands out for its extensive experience and track record in the sector, offering specialised services ranging from initial consultancy to the commissioning and ongoing maintenance of lifts. It is distinguished by its commitment to quality and efficiency and by having technical teams with the necessary knowledge to adapt to the specific needs of each building.
Finally, we can highlight that Aszende offers post-installation support that is key to maximising the durability and efficiency of the system, thereby contributing to the comfort and well-being of residents.
Cherlys Michel Pérez Ronda
Civil Works Manager
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