Our latest California Disability-Forward Housing Working Group meeting featured a discussion on Single-Stair Reform led by Eduardo Mendoza of the Metropolitan Abundance Project (MAP) – MAP provides a policy framework and works with leaders at the state and local levels to reverse the exclusionary policies that fuel the housing crisis.
Single-stair reform would change the rule requiring residential buildings above three stories to have at least two staircases for exiting. This rule was created before additional fire safety measures, like sprinkler systems and fireproof building materials, were included in buildings, and the US is one of the few countries still requiring it despite many peer countries achieving better fire safety outcomes.
The two-stair requirement, however, limits apartment size and unit layout options and increases the construction costs of multifamily apartment buildings. Instead, many countries have built apartment buildings with one, centralized staircase and an elevator for exiting. This allows for more space, windows, and better circulation within apartment units, as well as wider hallways – all of which create more access for people with disabilities. These kinds of buildings have also proven to have lower construction costs and, because they are more efficiently designed, can be built on smaller lots within existing communities, which also increases accessible housing options.
During our meeting, Eduardo presented on how single-stair reform works best when paired with elevator reform – which makes apartment buildings more accessible – and how both create more disability-forward homes.
Our main takeaway: We still have a long way to go to make housing accessible for everyone, but single-stair reform can help us get there.
Click here to read our Learn Center article on single-stair reform.
Click here to learn more about the California Disability-Forward Housing Working Group and how you can join us.