Published 8 June 2026 · Last updated 22 June 2026
The UK government has confirmed that all new homes in England must now meet the M4(2) accessible and adaptable standard under updated Building Regulations. The change, introduced through reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), represents the most significant shift in accessible housing policy in over a decade.
Under the M4(2) standard, new builds must include features that allow homes to be easily adapted for residents with reduced mobility. Requirements include wider doorways (850mm at main entrances, 775mm internally), level or low-threshold access at external doors, and reinforced bathroom walls to support the future installation of grab rails. Stairs must also be designed to accommodate a stairlift if needed later in life.
The government has set a national expectation that at least 40% of new homes should meet this accessible and adaptable standard, alongside continued provision for M4(3) wheelchair-accessible homes. Many local authorities already impose M4(2) requirements through planning conditions, but the new national policy creates a consistent baseline across England.
Housing charity Habinteg has welcomed the reforms, arguing that building accessible homes from the outset is far more cost-effective than retrofitting adaptations later. According to their research, adapting an existing home can cost tens of thousands of pounds, while building to M4(2) standards adds only around £1,400 to the cost of a new home.
The policy change is particularly relevant for the mobility aids sector. As the UK population ages, with over one-fifth of residents now aged 65 or above, demand for accessible housing continues to grow. The bathroom mobility and home lifts markets are expected to benefit as more homeowners seek to future-proof their properties.
For homeowners in existing properties who need adaptations, the Disabled Facilities Grant remains available through local councils, covering up to £30,000 in England and £36,000 in Wales for essential modifications including stairlifts, wet rooms, ramps, and door widening.
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Published 8 June 2026 · Last updated 22 June 2026