This week, I answer the question of Johanne: “I have a house” split level “. When we move from the lounge to the kitchen, there are three steps to climb. Currently, a ramp with vertical wood spindles separates the lounge from the kitchen. I saw in some magazine that the ramp had been removed and replaced by a kind of low bookcase (2-3 ‘tall). There was no ramp beside the steps either. Do I comply with the law if I remove the ramp and replace it with something less high? Thank you. ”
Hi Johanne, normally there should be a ramp where there is a staircase. It is a question of security and compliance with the Building Act. It is also an insurance issue. If someone were to get hurt in your home and decide to sue you, you would not be covered since the nonconformity of the ramp. The best way to be sure of what you can do is check with your municipality regarding the laws governing your area. So you can possibly move forward with your project being sure to stay within the law.
By cons, it’s all about logic too. If you do not have young children at home and if you install something else that blocks the space, it is possible to do certain things. In magazines, they often offer some nice projects and usually, people who prepare these items have been careful to learn about the feasibility of any project. So it’s a safe bet that it’s legal.