A disability access report may be required when the building surveyor needs specialist evidence that a proposed design addresses the applicable access provisions. There is no universal rule for every permit: the building classification, scope of work, existing conditions and approval pathway all matter.
Because access requirements are project-specific, the correct answer depends on the building, proposed work, approval pathway and evidence available. This guide explains the practical questions to ask before making a decision.
Need advice on a live project? Request a fee proposal from ASN.
The key factors
- A new building or substantial alteration includes accessible paths, facilities or public areas
- The surveyor requests specialist review of the permit documentation
- The design has complex interfaces or an unresolved departure from a deemed-to-satisfy provision
- Existing-building constraints affect entrances, circulation or accessible facilities
- The project team wants access issues resolved before formal submission
A qualified access consultant can help connect these factors to the relevant NCC provisions, Premises Standards, Australian Standards and project documentation. The review scope should identify the criteria being applied and any important limitations.
Common mistakes
Waiting until drawings are complete, submitting incomplete details, assuming a planning approval resolves building access, or asking for a report without confirming the surveyor’s expectations.
These mistakes are easier to correct in drawings and project planning than after approval, procurement or construction. Early review also gives the architect, building surveyor, owner and contractor a shared record of the issue.
A practical way forward
- Ask the relevant building surveyor what specialist documentation is required
- Provide the current drawing set, classification, project description and deadline
- Agree whether the review is preliminary, permit-stage or a final close-out
- Respond to findings across all affected disciplines, not only the architectural plans
What useful advice should contain
A useful assessment should state the purpose of the review, the documents or areas assessed, the applicable criteria, material findings, assumptions, exclusions and recommended next actions. It should be written for the people who need to resolve the issue, rather than simply reproducing clauses.
Where a design changes after the assessment, the affected access findings should be reviewed again. One altered doorway, level, fixture or route can affect connected parts of the accessibility strategy.
Relevant ASN service
ASN’s primary service for this issue is Disability Access Report for Building Permits. Access Solutions National has provided disability access and inclusion advice since 2002. Our consultants are qualified and Accredited Members of the Association of Consultants in Access Australia (ACAA).
Frequently asked questions
Should I wait until the design is complete?
No. Early advice usually provides more options and reduces the chance of redesign. The scope can be updated as documentation develops.
Does an access consultant replace the building surveyor?
No. The access consultant provides specialist advice. The building surveyor or relevant authority remains responsible for statutory approval decisions.
What should I send ASN?
Send the address, project description, current drawings or photographs, project stage, question to be answered and required date. ASN will confirm the appropriate service and scope.
Discuss your project
Request a fee proposal or call 1300 276 222 for practical disability access advice.