What is a Disability Access Certificate?
A. A Disability Access Certificate (DAC) is a certificate of compliance for certain works with respect to meeting the requirements of Part M of the Second Schedule of the Building Regulations.
The application process for a DAC is outlined in 2009 amendments to the Building Control Regulations. Part IIIB of the amended Building Control Regulations sets out the process and procedures on how to apply for a Disability access Certificate.
Q. When is a Disability Access Certificate application required?
A. A Disability Access Certificate is required for new buildings other than dwellings (including apartment buildings) and certain other works (as set out in Article 20 D (1) of SI 351 of 2009) to which the requirements of Part M of the Building Regulations apply. In general, a DAC is required for works requiring a Fire Safety Certificates including all new buildings, extensions, some material alterations and certain material changes of use.
Q. Where do I need to apply for a Disability Access Certificate?
A. Where a Disability Access Certificate is required, a person must make an application to the local building control authority.
Q. What should my application contain?
A. An application for a Disability Access Certificate would usually contain the following:
- An application form.
- A Disability Access Certificate compliance report showing compliance with Part M of the Building Regulations.
- Marked up drawings including a site location map, existing floor plans, marked up proposed floor plans, proposed sections and elevations.
O’Herlihy Access Consultancy offers training on how to prepare or review a DAC application.
Q. How much does it cost to make an application to the Building Control Authority?
A. A fee of €800 is applicable when applying.
Q. What if I make revisions to my design?
A. A Revised Disability Access Certificate (RDAC) application can also be made to a building control authority. A RDAC is required where significant revisions take place to works or a building where a DAC has already been granted.
Q. Where can I get more information?
A. If you’d like to contact us, we can provide you with information on what training is available, and how we can assist you in the preparation of the application.
Please see below for further information on Disability Access Certificates
Does having a Disability Access Certificate for a building make it accessible?
Should Disability Access Certificates have been called Access Certificates?
Two important considerations when preparing and lodging a Disability Access Certificate application
