Accessibility in older buildings presents several challenges, both technical and legal. Many structures built before modern accessibility standards—such as those established the Equality Act 2010 or similar legislation worldwide—were not designed with people with disabilities in mind. Retrofitting them can be complex and costly. Here are some of the major challenges:
Structural Constraints
Narrow doorways and hallways: Older buildings often have smaller spaces that can't accommodate wheelchairs or mobility aids.
Stairs and level changes: Many lack lifts or ramps, making access impossible for those with mobility impairments.
non-compliant bathrooms: Toilets may not have enough space or appropriate fixtures (e.g., grab bars, accessible sinks/toilets).
No lifts or lifts outdated: Adding lifts in buildings with limited space or historic protections can be difficult.
Historic Preservation Restrictions
Buildings with landmark or heritage status may have strict limitations on structural modifications.
Original materials, facades, or internal features may need to be preserved, complicating ramp or lift installations.
Any work often requires additional permits or creative solutions that preserve historical integrity while improving access.
Cost and Funding
Retrofitting older buildings is often more expensive than building accessible features into new construction.
Small property owners or nonprofits may struggle to fund necessary upgrades without subsidies, grants, or tax incentives.
The cost of compliance can sometimes lead to resistance or slow adoption of accessibility improvements.
Legal and Regulatory Gaps
Enforcement of accessibility standards in older private buildings is often weaker than in public or commercial structures.
Lack of Awareness or Expertise
Building owners and designers may not fully understand accessibility needs or how to implement solutions.
Accessibility goes beyond ramps: it includes lighting, signage, acoustics, tactile surfaces, and more.
There may be a gap between legal compliance and actual usability for people with diverse disabilities.
Universal Design Limitations
Universal design aims to create environments usable by all people, but retrofitting older buildings for universal design is particularly difficult.
Some buildings were designed around specific aesthetics or uses (e.g., steep staircases, small doorways) that are fundamentally incompatible with universal access.
Inconsistent Building Codes
Older buildings may fall under outdated building codes, which are not harmonized with current accessibility standards.
Renovations can trigger partial upgrades, resulting in patchy compliance across different areas of the same building.
Examples of Common Retrofits:
Installing ramps or platform lifts at entrances.
Widening doorways where structurally possible.
Adding accessible signage and tactile indicators.
Renovating toilets to meet accessibility standards.
Installing automatic doors or lever-style handles.
View more information about Building Audits here.