New Build Properties
My idea of a new build property is that they would come with accessible features as standard. It was exciting seeing this recent new build due to the features that came with it. In this latest property update, I cover my recent viewing of a newly built bungalow. Was this the home of my dreams or another example of poor housing design?
The Viewing
Access into the property wasn’t too bad with a small threshold to get over. Out of all the houses I have viewed, this has been the first home I could access from the get-go which is a good sign of progress. The hallway was decently sized with enough space to turn around if needed. As for the rooms, they were a cosy size, with the living area offering a large amount of space with access to a fairly decent garden.
Small Bathroom
Unfortunately for the bathroom, this was very small and looked to be unsuitable for essential powerchair users such as me. The bathroom in the pictures looked much bigger online and was one of the reasons I wanted to see it in person. It was really unfortunate that the house wasn’t up to accessibility standards after viewing it.
New Housing Failing Disabled People
Considering that the new build must meet certain accessibility requirements, it was a shock that this home wasn’t accessible. It goes to show that even if the brief says to build accessible housing, the people building the homes may not understand what this entails.
Lack of Wheelchair Accessible Housing
Again, I’ve had my needs excluded from something everyone needs, including disabled people. Housing shouldn’t be solely viewed as a money-making opportunity but should aim to meet the needs of its buyers, whether that means paying more for a house or giving up a bedroom to compensate. We’re still a long way off from experiencing truly wheelchair-accessible new builds.
Back to Rightmove!
While this was a huge disappointment, I shall continue to look for the perfect wheelchair-accessible property (on Rightmove of course!) – there will be more updates coming very soon as I get more viewings!
If you would like to get involved with the blog, please drop an email to info@buildmyaccessiblehome.com with your post ideas or comments you would like to work with you to publish and I will get back to you ASAP!
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One reply on “Property Hunt Update 13 – New Builds Are Inaccessible Too”
You’ve highlighted so well the issues that people with specific access needs have when finding a property — this was really important to read/learn about. I hope you have better luck soon — I look forward to reading how you get on!