Is It a Legal Requirement to Have a Handrail on Stairs?

What is the building code for the standard height of a handrail?

Stairs can be hazardous if not fitted with the correct safety features, which is why it's important to have a thorough understanding of the legal requirements for handrails in the UK. In this article, we’ll dive into this topic to answer the question: Is It a Legal Requirement to Have a Handrail on Stairs?

The Building Regulations of the UK require that all handrails be at least 850mm above the pitch line (the rise) of the stair and no more than 1,000mm from the pitch line. This applies to both the handrail on the side of the stairs (the balustrade) and the handrail on the front of the stairs (the bannister). If the handrail is mounted in a vertical position rather than a horizontal one, it needs to be no less than 900mm from the pitch line.

In addition to these measurements, the handrail must also have an intermediate rail placed no more than 400mm below the main horizontal rail. The width of the handrail should also be measured from the top and bottom of the rail; according to the regulations, it should be at least 50mm wide.

Do I need a handrail on my staircase?

Yes. The minimum requirement of the Building Regulations in the UK is that a handrail must be provided on at least one side of any flight of stairs. This applies to both internal and external staircases. However, there are some exceptions to this requirement: if the staircase is less than 1m wide, only a handrail on one side is necessary, and if the staircase is over 1m wide, two handrails are needed—one on each side. 

For particularly steep or narrow staircases, the Building Regulations advise that the handrail should be held continuously around the newel post, so as to ensure maximum stability. Furthermore, if the staircase is located outdoors, a separate handrail should be used for the external steps in order to provide extra grip and protection from the elements.

How do you measure for a handrail?

To measure for a handrail, you'll need to determine the total length of your stairs, including the top and bottom steps. You'll also need to measure the height of the handrail, which should be 850mm to 1000mm above the pitch line (the rise) depending on whether you're using a vertical or horizontal rail. Make sure you allow for any landings or changes in direction when measuring the length of the handrail, and account for any bannisters or newels located in the middle of the staircase.

What is the difference between a handrail and a guardrail?

A guardrail is a larger, more substantial version of a handrail, and it usually runs along the open side of the treads. It's often used in areas with a lot of people, like public buildings or places of business, and is typically used in combination with a handrail. A handrail, on the other hand, is the railing located on the side of the stairs and is typically used on residential stairs.

Where should a handrail start and stop?

In most cases, the handrail should start and finish at the same point, either at the top or bottom of the stairs. However, if your stairs have a landing, the handrail should continue around the corner onto the landing but should not extend beyond the treads onto the wall. The ends of the handrail should also be protected by either a wall or a newel post to ensure that it is kept securely in place.

While it's not always a legal requirement to have a handrail on stairs, the Building Regulations strongly suggest it for safety reasons. If you're thinking of installing a handrail, make sure to read up on the regulations carefully and take the necessary measurements before fitting it. Doing so will ensure that you end up with a secure and safe handrail for your home.