New build stairs: what the regulations require, and how to check them
Stairs carry more safety checks than anywhere else in a new home. Here are the figures Building Regulations and NHBC Standards set, and how to measure each one yourself with a tape measure.
Stairs: every step the same
- How to check
- Measure the height (rise) of every step and the depth (going) of every tread. Write them down. Check the top and bottom steps too, after floor finishes.
- What good looks like
- Rise 150–220mm and going 220–300mm, pitch no steeper than 42°, and every step in a flight the same. Floor finishes may reduce the bottom rise by up to 12mm.
Approved Document K; NHBC 6.6.8
Handrail
- How to check
- Grip the handrail along its full length and push gently. Measure its height from the front edge of the treads.
- What good looks like
- 900–1000mm above the line of the stair nosings, firmly fixed, continuous, smooth, at least 25mm clear of the wall, with rounded or returned ends. Needed on both sides if the stair is 1m wide or more.
Approved Document K; NHBC 6.6.11
Balustrade and newel posts
- How to check
- Push firmly on the newel posts and spindles. Try a 100mm disc or ball in the gaps between spindles and under the rail.
- What good looks like
- Guarding at least 900mm high on stairs and landings. A 100mm sphere must not pass through any gap. Not easy for a child to climb.
Approved Document K; NHBC 6.6.10
Headroom over the stairs
- How to check
- Measure from the front edge of each step straight up to the ceiling or bulkhead above.
- What good looks like
- At least 2.0m clear headroom over every step and landing.
Approved Document K; NHBC 6.6.7
Low windows on the stairs and landing
- How to check
- Measure from the floor (or stair pitch line) to the bottom of any window upstairs.
- What good looks like
- A window upstairs with its sill below 800mm needs guarding, restricted opening or safety glass.
Approved Document K
Treads creaking or moving
- How to check
- Walk up and down slowly, stepping on both sides of each tread.
- What good looks like
- Treads firm and quiet in normal use.
NHBC Chapter 6.6
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