Federal Disability Equality Act Now Fully in Effect

Since 1 January 2016, the Disability Equality Act — originally enacted in 2006 — has been fully in force. This legislation mandates barrier-free accessibility in all public buildings.

What Does “Barrier-Free” Mean?

All public buildings — including retail shops, travel agencies, and medical practices — must be accessible to every person without requiring outside assistance. This includes, among other things, ground-level entrances, wheelchair ramps, suitable sanitary facilities, and spacious lifts.

The law defines barrier-free access as follows:

• Structural and other facilities are considered barrier-free when they are accessible and usable by people with disabilities in the customary manner — without particular difficulty and, in principle, without outside assistance.

The Estate Agent and Accessibility

Estate agents are not directly responsible for ensuring barrier-free access; however, they should be able to advise their clients on the matter. As a general rule, accessibility is the responsibility of the property owner. Since 1 January 2016, barrier-free access is required for any newly occupied property used for a public purpose.

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Source:

• Sozialministeriumservice: Barrier-Free Construction