Accessibility & Inclusive Design
Part M, M4(2) Accessible, M4(3) Wheelchair Adaptable/Accessible standards screening
Policy Requirements
M4(1) Visitable Compliance
M4(1) is the baseline minimum for all new dwellings. Requires level access or suitable entrance, and basic accessible WC.
M4(2) Accessible & Adaptable Compliance
M4(2) standards require accessibility for people with mobility impairments including wheelchair users. Tests 9 key criteria.
M4(3) Wheelchair Accessible Compliance
M4(3) standards ensure full wheelchair accessibility with all necessary provisions. Tests 12 comprehensive criteria.
Common Areas Accessibility
External Areas Accessibility
Equality Act 2010 Considerations
Key requirements under the Equality Act 2010 for reasonable adjustments and accessible environments:
- Accessible design must not discriminate against people with disabilities
- Reasonable adjustments required beyond minimum building regulations
- Anticipatory duty to plan for diverse needs in shared spaces
- Physical accessibility integral to service delivery for public/commercial uses
- Staff training on accessible customer service and wayfinding support
- Consider neurodiverse access needs (sensory, cognitive, mental health)
- Regular audits and community consultation with disabled users
About this tool: Accessibility
Building Regulations Part M compliance — M4(1) Visitable, M4(2) Accessible & Adaptable, M4(3) Wheelchair User dwellings, and Equality Act considerations.
Use when designing residential schemes. Many LPAs require a percentage of M4(2) or M4(3) units. Check your local plan for specific requirements.
Building Regs Part M, Equality Act 2010
Use these tools when designing your scheme or reviewing drawings. They help ensure your proposal meets technical standards before submission, reducing the risk of officer objections on design grounds.
Guidance to help you prepare — not formal planning advice. Check the current policy text and your council's local plan before relying on it.