Access Consultants

The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 introduced new laws on the provision of equal opportunities for disabled people. The Act is probably best regarded as a set of laws for human rights.

Disability is very widely defined in the Act and it is clear that one must consider the suitability of buildings for people with motor difficulties, impaired vision or hearing, and other problems. Wheelchair users must also be accommodated: though this group tends to be first in mind when considering disability, they are far less numerous than others.

In terms of its relevance for surveying, the Act set out to encourage employers to carry out changes to their premises, where it is reasonable to do so, so as to make them as accessible and useable as possible for disabled people. The Act also set out to do the same for ëservice providersí, i.e. any organisation that provides a service to other organisations or individuals.

The Act laid down time limits for employers and service providers to deal with these issues, which have now expired. Employers and service providers that have not dealt with these issues are now liable to litigation by aggrieved disabled persons.

Peter Scott & Associates can assist with advice on alterations to premises, setting out a series of prioritised adjustments for discussion and cost analysis. It is often the case that physical alterations to buildings can be avoided, with some changes to management or procedures, and we will help you to explore these options.