AS 4299—1995

Australian Standard
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Adaptable housing

PUBLISHED BY STANDARDS AUSTRALIA

(STANDARDS ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA)
1 THE CRESCENT, HOMEBUSH, NSW 2140
ISBN 0 7262 9866 2
 AS 4299—1995 2

PREFACE

This Standard was prepared by the Joint Standards Australia / Standards New Zealand
Committee ME/64 on Access for People with Disabilities and is the result of a consensus
among representatives on the joint committee to produce it as an Australian Standard.
For more than 15 years Standards Australia has been involved with developing design
standards for people with disabilities. AS 1428.1 was first published in 1977, followed by
revisions in 1988 and 1993. Other parts of AS 1428 have followed—all relating to public
buildings. AS 1428.2 describes enhanced requirements for fixtures and fittings, lighting and
other aspects of building and facilities.
The series comprises:
AS
1428 Design for access and mobility
1428.1 Part 1: General requirements for access — Buildings
1428.2 Part 2: Enhanced and additional requirements — Buildings and facilities
1428.3 Part 3: Requirements for children and adolescents with physical disabilities
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1428.4 Part 4: Tactile ground surface indicators for the orientation of people with vision
impairment
1428.1 Supp 1: General requirements for access — Buildings — Commentary
AS 1428.1 has been called up by the Building Code of Australia as a means of compliance
and because it is the only document available specifying design for people with disabilities,
it has been relied on at times for designing accessible homes as well.
There has been, however, a growing concern that the above Standards are insufficient and
inappropriate as housing standards. For example, the research for AS 1428.1 relates only to
people between 18 and 60 years of age.
This document relates to residential, rather than to public buildings. It provides a more
complete reference document and draws on the material contained in AS 1428.1 and
AS 1428.2. To date no housing-specific research on access for people with disabilities has
been carried out. Until such research is undertaken, AS 1428.1 and AS 1428.2 are considered
to contain useful guidelines.
The terms ‘normative’ and ‘informative’ have been used in this Standard to define the
application of the appendix to which they apply. A ‘normative’ appendix is an integral part
of a Standard, whereas an ‘informative’ appendix is only for information and guidance.

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 3 AS 4299—1995

CONTENTS

Page
FOREWORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL

1.1 SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .. . .. . .. .. .. .. ... ... ... .. 7
1.2 APPLICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .. ... ... . ... .. .. .. .. ... .. 7
1.3 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS . . . .. .. .. .. . .. . .... .. ...... ... .. 7
1.4 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .. ... ... . ... .. .. .. .. ... .. 8

SECTION 2 OBJECTIVES AND PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

2.1 OBJECTIVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.2 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.3 POTENTIAL FOR ADAPTATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
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SECTION 3 SITING
3.1 SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .... ... .. .. .. .. ... ..... .. . 12
3.2 SITING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .. .. .. ... .. .. ... .... ... .. . 12
3.3 ACCESS WITHIN THE SITE . . . .. .. .. .. ... .. ........... ... .. . 12
3.4 BUILDING LOCATION . . . . . . . .. .. ... . ..... ....... ... .. .. .. . 13
3.5 LANDSCAPING . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .... ..... .. ... .. .. .. .. . .. . 13
3.6 SECURITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .... ... .. . .. .. .. .. ... .. .. . 13
3.7 CAR PARKING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .... ..... . ... .. .. .. .. .. . . . 13
3.8 LETTERBOXES . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .... ..... .. ... .. .. .. .. . .. . 14
3.9 SIGNAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .... .. ... .. .. .. .. ... ... .. . 14

SECTION 4 DESIGN OF THE HOUSING UNIT

4.1 SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.2 FLOOR LEVEL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.3 ENTRANCES DOORWAYS AND CIRCULATION SPACES . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.4 SANITARY FACILITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
4.5 KITCHEN AREAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
4.6 BEDROOMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
4.7 LIVING AREAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
4.8 LAUNDRY AREAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
4.9 FLOORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
4.10 LIGHTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
4.11 ANCILLARY ITEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

APPENDICES
A SCHEDULE OF FEATURES FOR ADAPTABLE HOUSING . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
B EXAMPLE OF ADAPTABLE HOUSE PLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. 39
C WEATHERPROOFING OF EXTERNAL DOORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. 40
D EXAMPLE OF ACCESSIBLE COMBINED SANITARY FACILITIES . . .. .. 42
E KITCHEN AREA LAYOUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. 43

First publi shed as AS 4299— 1995.

 AS 4299—1995 4

FOREWORD

Demographic trends are towards longer lifespans, with a higher proportion of older people
in our community. With age, however, comes increasing risk of some form of disability. The
ABS Survey Disability, Ageing and Carers — 1993 showed that 18% of the total Australian
population had a disability. This percentage rose to 51% for people aged 60 or more years (1 ).
The Australian Disability Discrimination Act 1992 allows individuals to lay complaints if
they think they have been unfairly treated because of their disabilities. The Act applies to
buildings and accommodation; however, until tested, the implications for housing are
unknown (2 ).
The concept of ‘adaptable housing’
‘Barrier-free’ or ‘accessible’ design has traditionally been considered ‘special’ — separate
from mainstream housing design. Custom-designed housing to suit persons with disabilities
can therefore be expensive because it falls outside common building practices.
‘Adaptable design’ involves a move away from designing special accommodation for
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different community groups with different needs. It is design which avoids the personal and
economic costs that accompany social dislocation.
Principles The principles of adaptable housing are as follows:
(a) Adaptable housing design is good design for everyone Adaptable housing is a
benchmark or basis on which to develop the accommodation needs of users of all ages
and abilities. Adaptable housing, by incorporating sensible design features often lacking
in other housing, serves as a bonus to the owners and occupants.
(b) Adaptable housing should be possible at relatively little extra initial cost Later
modification to adaptable housing will prove relatively easy to do at minimum
inconvenience and minimum cost, and will more than offset the extra initial cost, thus
encouraging the occupant to stay, rather than face the disruption and cost of shifting
house. It will promote the economic and efficient use of building materials.
(b) The concept will provide safer houses Adaptable houses will have features,
dimensions and materials designed for safety and ease of use.
(c) Continuation of existing community and family networks This Standard fits well with
the current philosophy of independent living. People with disabilities and older people
are now wanting, and being encouraged through the provision of support services, to
stay in their own homes as long as possible, close to established support networks and
familiar surroundings.
(d) Suitability for people with any level of ability If a house is built according to
AS 1428.1 for a fictitious person, it may not be suited to a particular resident with
particular needs (e.g. a person with a vision impairment may have very different
requirements from a person who uses a wheelchair). The adaptable house must, in its
adaptable features, suit any future occupant with any type of disability.
International examples
The concept of adaptable housing in Australia grew from developments in various overseas
countries over the last 10 years. For example:
(a) The USA has included adaptable requirements for new multi-family dwellings in its
Fair Housing Amendments Act 1988. The Act requires accessible common-use portions
and features including—
(i) appropriate door widths;
(ii) accessible routes into and through the building;
 5 AS 4299—1995

(iii) accessible light switches, outlets and controls;

(iv) reinforcement in bathroom walls to allow later installation of grab-bars; and
(v) manoeuvring space in the kitchen and bathroom.
(b) In the UK, Goldsmith (3 ) introduced the concept of ‘mobility housing’ and took it further
with ‘Factor X housing’ to incorporate ‘visitability’. This allows people with
disabilities to visit family and friends.
(c) The Netherlands through its Building Adaptable Housing experiment (4 ), developed
detailed design requirements for adaptable housing.
(d) Scandinavian countries also incorporate requirements of adaptable housing in
legislation. For example, some of Norway’s ‘Lifespan Dwelling’(5 ) features are included
in building regulations. These are minimum door widths to kitchens, living rooms and
bedrooms. There are also requirements for at least one storey in a block of flats to be
accessible without steps.
(e) In New Zealand work on ‘special’ house design and facilities for pensioner housing
was done by the Disabled Persons Assembly, and its predecessor organization, with
local authorities on an ad-hoc basis over a number of years. Advice was offered to
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designers on a similar basis.

Benefits Certification of compliance with this Standard will have the following results:
(a) Visitability As more people with disabilities and older people live independently in
the community, they are finding that one aspect of normal social life presently denied
to them is the ability to visit family and friends at home. Houses that are or will
become adaptable will mean more houses that are ‘visitable’. Thus people with
disabilities will be able to enter the front door without difficulty and at least be able
to get to the living areas and be able to use the toilet.
(b) Economy of life-cycle construction Modifications to existing housing to suit the needs
of people with disabilities are often costly. Corridors and doors may have to be
widened, structural adjustments such as removing walls may be the only way to achieve
a useable bathroom and steps may have to be replaced by ramps. If houses are initially
built to suitable sizes and on suitable sites for access, costs of modifications can be
minimized. Thus, adaptable design will promote the economic and efficient use of
building materials.
(c) Safety and ease of use Adaptable design will make the dwelling safer and easier for
people of all ages. For example, for families with young children, it will allow
manoeuvrability for strollers and laundry trolleys. The level entry and door widths will
facilitate movement of furniture. The avoidance of steps will reduce accidents.
Adaptable design will also assist people with temporary disabilities.
(d) Greater choice of housing type Over a period, a larger proportion of housing stock
(public and private, rental and owned) will be adaptable. The concept can be applied
equally to all types of housing, from small flats or townhouses to large dwellings.
Houses which are designed to this Standard will not only achieve their stated purpose, but
will have more flexibility and a wider market appeal.
 AS 4299—1995 6

Bibliography
1 AUSTRALIAN BUREAU OF STATISTICS, Disability Ageing and Carers 1993.
2 Disability Discrimination Act, Australia, 1992.
3 GOLDSMITH, S. The Gestation of ‘X’ Housing in Design For Special Needs Vol 39,
1986. pp 6-8.
4 NOLTE, E.A.H. Building Adaptable Housing, National Housing Council of The
Netherlands, 1988.
5 LANGE, T. Adapting the Built Environment to the Disabled — the situation in Norway,
Norwegian Building Research Institute, 1989.
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 7 AS 4299—1995

STANDARDS AUSTRALIA

Australian Standard
Adapatable housing

S E C T I O N 1 S CO P E A N D G E NE R A L

1.1 SCOPE This Standard presents the objectives and principles of adaptable housing. Its
purpose is to provide guidelines on adaptable housing to those involved in designing or
building new dwellings or renovations, including—
(a) project home developers;
(b) designers, builders, owners and users of private housing;
(c) developers and designers of specialised housing such as retirement villages; and
(d) public housing bodies.
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Appendix A sets out essential and desirable features.

1.2 APPLICATION This Standard applies to planning and design of residential

accommodation and is intended for reference by designers and specifiers in the preparation
of their documentation and by members of the general public considering adaptable housing
for their particular needs. This Standard may be referenced by contractual agreement as a
means of assessing the level of adaptability of residential accommodation.
It is intended that housing units that comply with the range of essential features listed in
Appendix A be certified as adaptable housing units by an independent, suitably qualified
person as follows:
(a) Adaptable house class A All essential and desirable features incorporated.
(b) Adaptable house class B All essential, and minimum 50% of desirable features
incorporated, including all those notated ‘first priority’.
(c) Adaptable house class C All essential features.
NOTE: A feature is assessed in Appendix A as ‘essential’, ‘first priority desirable’ or ‘desirable’
depending on its importance to an occupant with a disability, and on the difference between initial
and future costs of adaptation.

1.3 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS The following documents are referred to in this

Standard:
AS
1288 Glass in buildings — Selection and installation
1428 Design for access and mobility
1428.1 Part 1: General requirements for access — Buildings
1428.2 Part 2: Enhanced and additional requirements — Buildings and facilities
1680 Interior lighting
1680.1 Part 1: General principles and recommendations
2890 Parking facilities
2890.1 Part 1: Off-street car parking

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 AS 4299—1995 8

AS
3727 Guide to residential pavements
3740 Waterproofing of wet areas within residential buildings
HB 46 Guide to residential fire safety
AS/NZS
3661 Slip resistance of pedestrian surfaces
3661.1 Part 1: Requirements
NZS
4121 Code of practice for access and use of buildings and facilities by disabled persons

1.4 DEFINITIONS For the purpose of this Standard, the definitions below apply.
1.4.1 Accessible —complying with the floor space requirements described in AS 1428.1 and
able to be approached, entered and used by people with a disability, including those who rely
upon a wheelchair.
1.4.2 Accessible housing unit— housing unit with features already in place to facilitate use
by a person with a disability or progressive frailty.
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NOTE: Accessible housing would typically incorporate features such as grabrails and fittings
adequate for people with limited mobility. Some of these features which enhance independent living
are described in AS 1428.1 and AS 1428.2.
1.4.3 Adaptable housing unit —housing unit which is designed and constructed to meet
the performance requirements stated in Clause 2.2 and to include the essential features listed
in Appendix A. An adaptable housing unit is designed in such a way that it can be modified
easily in the future to become accessible to both occupants and visitors with disabilities or
progressive frailties.
1.4.4 Circulation space — contains the net unobstructed area for a minimum height of
2000 mm above the finished floor or ground surface (unless otherwise specified in this
Standard), which is that space surrounding built elements, landscape elements, and fixtures
and fittings required for movement into and within buildings.
1.4.5 General purpose outlet (GPO)— electrical socket for general use.
1.4.6 Housing unit— a single residence or a part of a residence, containing living area and
sleeping space, kitchen, toilet and bath or shower room. The term includes bed-sitter flats,
detached and semi-detached houses, villa homes, townhouses and apartments in multi-storey
blocks.
1.4.7 Ramp— an inclined accessway with a gradient steeper than 1 in 20 but not steeper
than 1 in 14.
1.4.8 Shall —refers to an essential requirement.
1.4.9 Should— refers to a desirable requirement.
1.4.10 Threshold — the sill of a doorway at the entrance to a house gradient not steeper
than 1 in 8, located in, or instead of, a step other than a kerb.
1.4.11 Visitable housing unit — housing unit which has at least one wheelchair accessible
entry with an accessible path of travel to the living area and to a toilet that is either
accessible or visitable.
1.4.12 Visitable toilet —a toilet which has a space of minimum 1250 mm in front of the
toilet × 900 mm wide clear of door swings and fixtures. (See Figure 1.1.)
1.4.13 Walkway — any accessway with a gradient not steeper than 1 in 20. (See Figure 1.2.)

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FIGURE 1.1

FIGURE 1.2
9

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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES
DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

WALKWAY
VISITABLE TOILET
AS 4299—1995
 AS 4299—1995 10

S E C T I O N 2 O B J E C T I V E S A N D
P E R F O R M A NC E R E Q U I R E M E N T S

2.1 OBJECTIVES The objectives for adaptable housing are as follows:

(a) That housing be designed and constructed or altered in a way which satisfies the
performance requirements for adaptable housing enumerated in Clause 2.2 below.
(b) That housing is designed in such a way that later alterations to suit individual
requirements will be achievable at minimal extra initial cost.
(c) That housing be designed in such a way that it will easily adapt to suit the widest
possible range of lifetime needs. This will include the needs of people with physical
disabilities (including people who use wheelchairs, people with disabilities who are
ambulant, and people with manipulatory disabilities); people with sensory disability
(vision, hearing) and people with intellectual disability.
(d) The initial design will allow for visitability through an accessible path of travel to the
living room and toilet.
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2.2 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS Adaptable housing units shall be designed and

constructed to meet the following requirements:
(a) Visitability To be visitable by people who use wheelchairs, in that there must be at
least one wheelchair accessible entry and path of travel to the living area and to a toilet
that is either accessible or visitable.
(b) Avoidance of level changes To have no steps and to avoid level changes where
possible.
(c) Manoeuvrability This shall include the following:
(i) To provide space sufficient to manoeuvre a wheelchair within a living area, the
kitchen and an accessible path of travel linking these areas.
NOTE: Although not required for visitability, the kitchen is included as an initial
spatial requirement for manoeuvrability, as there is significant expense involved in
changing the kitchen layout at a later date.
(ii) To provide space sufficient to manoeuvre a wheelchair within a bedroom, a
bathroom and a toilet or to provide a design and details whereby after
adaptation there will be sufficient space to manoeuvre a wheelchair within these
facilities and an accessible path of travel linking these facilities to the entry,
living and kitchen areas.
(d) Ease of adaptation If the design for adaptation requires further demolition of walls
then these walls shall be non load-bearing and free of electrical and plumbing services.
(e) Ease of reach To provide electrical controls, taps, and some shelves and cupboards
at levels to suit people who use wheelchairs.
(f) Future laundry facilities To provide laundry facilities that after adaptation will be
accessible to people who use wheelchairs. Those laundry facilities may be external to
the adaptable housing unit, providing a wheelchair accessible path of travel is available
from the adaptable housing unit to the laundry facilities.
NOTES:
1 There are no set design solutions, but a huge variety of ways of adapting a design to meet these
criteria is possible. Designers are encouraged to use imaginative design within these broad
parameters. An example of an adaptable house design is shown in Appendix B.

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 11 AS 4299—1995

2 The most demanding scenario for the design for circulation within housing units is for an
occupant in a wheelchair. The manoeuvring of wheelchairs imposes the greatest circulation
space requirements within housing units. For this reason circulation requirements are generally
based on the requirements for people who use wheelchairs as in AS 1428.1 or AS 1428.2.
3 Design to accommodate wheelchair use will also assist people with prams, trolleys and other
wheeled equipment.

2.3 POTENTIAL FOR ADAPTATION To obtain certification as an adaptable housing

unit, ‘as built’ drawings showing the housing unit in its pre-adaptation and post-adaptation
stages shall be provided. A description of how the adaptation is to be achieved shall also be
provided.
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 AS 4299—1995 12

S E C T I O N 3 S IT I NG

3.1 SCOPE This Section provides guidance on choosing a site, both in respect of its
relationship with external facilities, and the location of the housing unit on the development
or allotment.

3.2 SITING
3.2.1 Site location When selecting a site for lifetime accommodation, the following
factors should be considered:
(a) Community facilities.
(b) Transport.
(c) Roads and footpaths.
(d) Location in relation to busy roads.
3.2.2 Site gradient When choosing a site, the external circulation and use of open areas
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should be considered. A level or gently sloping site of up to 1:14 maximum gradient may
prove more economical to develop and easier to move around in. This Standard does not
preclude the selection of steeper sites provided the finished development provides wheelchair
access to facilities external from the dwelling.

3.3 ACCESS WITHIN THE SITE

3.3.1 General The development shall be suitable for people with varying degrees of
mobility so that, as a minimum, access for people with disabilities is available to at least one
entry to the adaptable housing unit.
Consideration should be given to the following:
(a) Provision of on-site turning area for vehicles.
(b) Access for emergency vehicles.
(c) Visibility of street names and numbers. See also Clause 3.9.
(d) Driveway location with regard to residents’ safety and security.
3.3.2 Accessible pathway An accessible path of travel from the street frontage carparking
area or drop-off point shall be provided to all adaptable housing units. As a minimum, this
accessible path shall comply with AS 1428.1 and shall be continuous, slip-resistant, hard-
surfaced and shall not incorporate any step, stairway or other impediment which would
prevent it from being safely negotiated by people with disabilities. It is advisable for
walkways to be provided with passing areas, as specified in AS 1428.2.
Where ramps are essential, an alternative route using steps with a greater going to suit users
of walking frames may be considered, as specified in AS 1428.2.
It is recommended that any paths and walkways additional to the above accessible pathway
be continuous, slip-resistant, hard-surfaced with gradients complying with AS 1428.1.
3.3.3 Residential developments In addition to the requirements in Clause 3.3.1, where
housing units are within a residential development, consideration should be given to the
following:
(a) Access for people with disabilities should be available to all common use facilities
including carpark, letterbox area, laundry and clothes drying area, garbage disposal area
and at least part of the garden.

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 13 AS 4299—1995

(b) Street names showing house numbers should be provided at each intersection.
(c) Pedestrian networks in residential developments shall be separate to vehicular access.
Where adjacent they shall be distinguished by use of colour and texture.
NOTE: Grass verges are not suitable as part of the accessible pathway.

3.4 BUILDING LOCATION Where the housing unit is part of a residential estate
development, it is desirable for buildings to be sited so that residents can enjoy a reasonable
balance between neighbourhood security and privacy.

3.5 LANDSCAPING When considering landscaping, both on a private allotment and

within a residential development, attention shall be given to the following:
(a) Paths and walkways to the entrance of the adaptable housing unit (see Section 3.3.2)
shall be continuous, hard surfaced and shall comply with AS 1428.1. A gravel surface,
for example, would not be suitable. The surface shall be slip-resistant in accordance
with the requirements of AS/NZS 3661.1. Paths should not be located beneath trees
with heavy leaf fall.
Consideration should be given to drainage of the pathways, with all grates and gullies
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located to the side. Grates and gullies should not have a grid which is parallel to the
direction of travel.
Where segmental pavements are used they shall comply with AS 3727.
(b) Accessibility of private gardens or allotments to the owners.
(c) The effects of plant selection on security, natural lighting maintenance, and ease of
circulation to, and movement around, the adaptable housing unit.

3.6 SECURITY
3.6.1 External lighting An even degree of light shall be provided along the main
accessible pathways referred to in Clause 3.3.2. Lighting should be at a low level to reduce
glare. A minimum lighting level of 50 lux at ground level shall be provided. Light fittings
should light up the surface for one metre on each side of the path.
3.6.2 Line of sight There should be a clear line of sight from a well-lit vehicular drop-off
point to a safe pedestrian entry point.

3.7 CAR PARKING

3.7.1 General Private car parking spaces shall be large enough to enable a person with
a wheelchair to get in and out of both the car and the parking space. A car parking space
width of 3.8 m minimum is necessary to enable a driver to alight, open the passenger side
door, and assist a person with a disability into a wheelchair, or for a side-loading ramp. A
3.8 m, minimum width is also required for a driver with a disability to unload a wheelchair
and to alight. A roof to the car parking space is desirable.
NOTE: If it is required to unload the wheelchair within the garage, an internal vertical clearance
of 2.5 m is necessary to operate a car roof wheelchair unit.
3.7.2 Garages and carports Garages and carports shall have minimum internal
dimensions of 6.0 m × 3.8 m. A 2.5 m internal vertical clearance is desirable. A garage may
be reduced if a hardsurfaced level outside space of minimum dimensions 5.4 m × 3.8 m is
provided as a sheltered carpark, or can be provided in the future. Provision for a power-
operated roller door is desirable.
NOTE: A level surface includes surfaces with a gradient of up to 1:40.

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 AS 4299—1995 14

3.7.3 Residential estate developments One car parking space per adaptable unit shall
have minimum dimensions specified in Clause 3.7.2 and should otherwise comply with the
requirements of AS 2890.1 for parking for people with disabilities.
Surface car parking spaces should be convenient to the front door of the housing unit, rather
than in a separate car park and should be covered. Access to the adaptable housing unit
should also be covered.
Multistorey car parking should be in accordance with AS 1428.2 in terms of clearances.

3.8 LETTERBOXES Letterboxes shall comply with Australia/New Zealand Post

regulations.
Where letterboxes are centrally located in residential estate developments they should be
adjacent to the street entry. Letterboxes and parcel racks should be lockable.
The letterbox area should allow for a future roof to be constructed and be in a well-lit
location.
External letterboxes shall be located on a hard standing area connected to an accessible
pathway to the adaptable housing unit.
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3.9 SIGNAGE After adaptation, signage shall comply with the following:
(a) Be presented in large print (70–80 mm height) letters and raised 6–8 mm from
background.
(b) Be of sanserif type — upper face case preferred —light colour (e.g. white/yellow)
against a dark background.
(c) Be positioned 1500–1650 mm from ground height.
(d) Be placed centrally on the door or letterbox.
(e) Be well lit with matt or non-reflecting finish.
(f) In residential estates where there are separate male/female toilets, standard male/female
graphic figures should be used for toilet doors— raised from background with a raised
letter ‘M’ or ‘F’ below.

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 15 AS 4299—1995

S E C T I O N 4 D ES I G N O F T H E H O U S I N G U N I T

4.1 SCOPE This Section provides information and guidance on those features which are
essential in an adaptable housing unit and those features which are desirable.

4.2 FLOOR LEVEL There shall be a level floor throughout, unless split levels are used
where —
(a) there is scope to include a ramp to comply with AS 1428.1; or
(b) all essential features are located on one level.
NOTE: Essential features include at least entry, living area and toilet.

4.3 ENTRANCES, DOORWAYS AND CIRCULATION SPACES

4.3.1 Accessible entrance At least one accessible entry door complying with AS 1428.2
shall be provided.
NOTES:
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1 Entry doors should preferably have a porch or some other form of protection from the weather
(see AS 1428.2).
2 Consideration should be given to features like a shelf on which to rest parcels while opening
the door.
4.3.2 Landing Where the accessible entry door is exposed to the weather, it shall be
provided with a landing outside the door with a maximum fall of 1:40 and a low threshold
at the entry door to exclude water. The threshold shall allow for the smooth transition of a
wheelchair (see Figure 4.1). The landing shall be of sufficient area to enable wheelchair
manoeuvrability.
NOTES:
1 An area of 1550 mm diameter generally satisfies this requirement.
2 Typical design solutions for low thresholds are given in Appendix C.
4.3.3 Doors Doors throughout shall have a minimum clear opening of 820 mm, except
where otherwise described.
NOTES:
1 A hinged door leaf of 870 mm width will satisfy this requirement and will accommodate over
80% of people who use wheelchairs.
2 Consideration may be given to using a door leaf of 920 mm width.
Doors shall be adequately weatherproofed.
4.3.4 Door handles and hardware The door handle and related hardware shall be of the
type that allows the door to be unlocked and opened with one hand.
NOTE: Lever handles are preferred because doorknobs do not provide an adequate grip for people
with hand impairments.
Door lever handles and hardware shall be not less than 900 mm nor more than 1100 mm
above the plane of the finished floor and shall be in accordance with AS 1428.1.
All lockable external doors in the housing unit should be keyed alike, including any garage
doors, storeroom door and the like.
NOTE: Deadlocks, although secure, can cause problems in times of emergency. Security locks
which do not deadlock from the inside are preferred.

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FIGURE 4.1 ENTRY LANDING

4.3.5 Security External doors should provide both security and ventilation, bearing in
mind that some wheelchair users may experience difficulty with door/security screen
combinations. A single door incorporating a screened security section which can be opened
for ventilation is preferable to a separate door/security door combination. Provision should
be made for future installation of such a single door.
Lighting should be positioned so that a person outside the door is illuminated.
4.3.6 Circulation spaces Circulation spaces shall be capable of modification to comply
with AS 1428.1 as a minimum, and preferably with AS 1428.2.
NOTE: The final modified stage of the housing unit needs to have been confirmed at the design
stage, particularly if the removal or relocation of walls, baths and associated plumbing and drainage
is involved. See Clause 2.3.
4.3.7 Internal corridors Internal corridors shall have a minimum width of 1000 mm.
After adaptation, circulation spaces at doorways shall comply with AS 1428.1.

4.4 SANITARY FACILITIES

4.4.1 General All sanitary facilities and components shall be adaptable, at minimum cost,
to potentially comply with AS 1428.1 as a minimum, and preferably with AS 1428.2.
NOTE: The required circulation spaces at doors and around WC pans, washbasins and showers shall
be able to be provided without major plumbing changes. The WC pan should either be located in
the after-adaptation location initially or be fitted with a P trap. In addition, items like toilet paper
dispensers and WC flushing controls shall comply with AS 1428.1. Because of the difficulty in
moving some of these items after they have been initially installed, it is desirable that they should
comply with AS 1428.1 from the outset. For example, see Figure 4.2.
For an example of accessible combined sanitary facilities, see Appendix D.

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 17 AS 4299—1995

4.4.2 Floor surface Floor surfaces shall be slip-resistant to comply with AS/NZS 3661.1.
4.4.3 Toilet Each housing unit shall be provided with either a visitable toilet or an
accessible toilet.
Where a separate toilet and bathroom are used with the intention of future unification, the
WC pan shall initially be positioned at the correct distance from any fixed walls. Refer to
Figure 4.3.
NOTE: For ease of plumbing modifications, this would normally mean the rear wall on which the
cistern is mounted and the side wall on which the grabrails will be fixed. Although the cistern can
be moved relatively easily, it is advisable to initially install it to comply with AS 1428.1, as would
be the case with the WC pan (see Figure 4.3).
A recessed paper holder should be provided.
4.4.4 Bathroom The recommendations for the bathroom are as follows:
(a) General Various possibilities are available in the bathroom for later adaptation, e.g.
removal of the bath and replacement with a shower suitable for use by people with
disabilities.
(b) Automatic control of water temperature Hot water systems shall be installed to deliver
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hot water at a maximum of 50° Celsius at the outlet of all sanitary fixtures used for
personal hygiene purposes.
NOTE: This may be achieved by fitting a thermostatic mixing valve during modifications, to
the outlet. Such a valve regulates water pressure and temperature to provide a safe,
predetermined flow of hot water.
(c) Tap sets Tap sets throughout shall have capstan or lever handles.
(d) Wall cabinet The bathroom should include a wall cabinet with a light above. A double
GPO shall be located adjacent to the mirror.
(e) Bath Where a bath is provided it should be able to be adapted to comply with
AS 1428.2 for grabrail fixings.
NOTE: It is not desirable to have a shower over a bath.
(f) Shower compartment A shower shall be provided. The shower compartment shall be
a minimum size of 1160 × 1100 mm. The soap holder shall be recessed. The position
of the shower head and taps shall be such that the clearances and heights required by
AS 1428.1 are achieved.
The shower area shall be waterproofed to comply with AS 3740. The shower waste
should be minimum 80 mm diameter.
Any waterproofing system used in the shower compartment shall be such that it can be
extended to suit the larger, hobless configuration as required by AS 1428.1.
NOTES:
1 A system which is integral with a hob would not be suitable, as the hob would require
removal on modification.
2 To achieve a finished hobless shower floor a set-down in the substrate may be required. See
AS 3740.
The floor shall be sloped down to the shower waste to avoid ponding of water.
(g) Washbasin The washbasin shall be located such that circulation spaces to adjacent
doors, WC pans and other components, and knee clearances are either provided in
accordance with AS 1428.1 or will be able to be provided at adaptation.
NOTE: The required knee clearances are shown in Figure 4.4.

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AS 4299—1995

FIGURE 4.2
18

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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

EXAMPLE OF BATHROOM BEFORE AND AFTER ADAPTATION

 19 AS 4299—1995
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NO TES:
1 For the purpose of dimensioning, the front of the WC pan has been taken as the datum plane.
2 The dimension of 800 mm from the front of the WC pan to the wall is a critical dimension.
3 A back support at 600 mm from the front of the pan is important. This supports people who are paralysed
from the chest down. The back support may be a cistern or a continuous grab rail and toilet lid.

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 4.3 LOCATION OF WC PAN

(h) Grabrails If grabrails or shower seats are required by the initial occupant of the
housing unit they shall be installed in accordance with AS 1428.1 or to suit the
occupant. Grabrails for baths if required by the initial occupant, shall be installed in
accordance with AS 1428.2, or to suit the occupant.
If grabrails or a shower seat are not initially required, provision for grabrails shall be
made in the modified configurations as required by AS 1428.1.

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 AS 4299—1995 20
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NO TE: The dimensions of the unobstructed space beneath the washbasin are critical dimensions.

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 4.4 WASHBASIN CLEARANCES

Where framed walls are used, strengthened areas for secure fixing shall be provided as shown
in Figures 4.5 to 4.7. The strengthened areas shall be adequate to support the loads imposed
through the grabrails.
NOTES:
1 12 mm structural plywood or similar may be deemed to provide adequate strengthening.
2 The loading requirements for grabrails are contained in AS 1428.1.

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21

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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

INSTALLATION OF GRABRAILS IN TOILETS

FIGURE 4.5 REINFORCED AREAS FOR SUBSEQUENT
AS 4299—1995
 AS 4299—1995 22
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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 4.6 REINFORCED AREAS FOR SUBSEQUENT INSTALLATION OF

GRABRAILS IN SHOWER COMPARTMENTS

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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 4.7 REINFORCED AREAS FOR SUBSEQUENT INSTALLATION

OF GRABRAILS AT BATHS

4.5 KITCHEN AREAS

4.5.1 General The potential configuration of the kitchen area after adaptation shall be
demonstrated prior to certification. The final configuration of the kitchen after adaptation
shall be shown to comply with Clause 4.5.3.
4.5.2 Circulation prior to adaptation Minimum clearances in front of appliances and
between opposing base cabinets shall be provided at the outset. A minimum clear floor space
of 1500 mm × 820 mm that allows either a forward or parallel approach by a person in a
wheelchair shall be provided at the sink and all appliances in the kitchen. In addition, a
minimum clearance of 1550 mm shall be maintained between all opposing base cabinets,
appliances and walls to allow for a 180° turn by a person in a wheelchair. For further
guidance see AS 1428.2.
NOTE: A 2.7 m width between walls will enable 1550 mm clearance between cupboards to both
walls.
4.5.3 Circulation after adaptation Circulation spaces at doors shall comply with
AS 1428.1.
4.5.4 Floor surfaces The floor surface shall be slip-resistant to comply with
AS/NZS 3661.1.

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 AS 4299—1995 24

4.5.5 Work surfaces At least one section of the work surface, not less than 800 mm in
length, should comply with the following:
(a) The work surface should be adjustable or replaceable as a unit at variable heights
within the range 750 mm to 850 mm above the finished floor surface.
(See Figure 4.8(b).)
(b) Base cabinets, if provided, should be removable over the full 800 mm length of the
work surface. The finished floor shall extend under the work surface to the wall.
(c) The required clear floor space of 1500 mm × 820 mm should allow a forward approach
to the work surface. No more than 500 mm of this clear floor space should extend
beneath the work surface. (See Figure 4.8(c).)
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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 4.8 WORK SURFACES

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 25 AS 4299—1995

(d) There should be no sharp, abrasive or heat-transferring surfaces or corners protruding

into travel paths under the work surface, sink or cooktop.
(e) A refrigerator shall be located adjacent to a work surface.
An example of a kitchen before adaptation and after adaptation is shown in Figures E1
and E2, in Appendix E.
4.5.6 Sinks The sink and an adjacent work surface which shall be a minimum of 800 mm
in length, and may be the work surface referred to under Clause 4.5.5, shall comply with the
following:
(a) The sink and surrounding work surface shall be adjustable or replaceable as a unit at
variable heights within the range 750 mm to 850 mm above the finished floor surface
(see Figure 4.9).
(b) Where sinks are installed to be adjustable in height, plumbing shall be installed to
accept supply and drainage connections for sinks remounted at any height referred to
in Item (a).
(c) The maximum depth of the bowl of the sink should be 150 mm. This would only apply
to the main bowl of a double bowl sink.
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(d) The required clear floor space of 1500 mm × 820 mm should allow a forward approach
to the sink. No more than 500 mm of this clear floor space should extend beneath the
sink.
NOTE: The design should allow for removal of any cabinets under the sink and adjacent work
surface to provide the required knee space. The finished floor should extend under the sink to
the wall. There should be no sharp or abrasive surfaces under the sink and all exposed hot
water pipes and surfaces should be insulated or otherwise covered.
(e) Taps shall comply with AS 1428.1 (see also AS 1428.2). See Figure 4.4 of this
Standard. Taps or their operating handles shall be within 300 mm of the front of the
sink to allow for ease of operation.
(f) Hot water systems shall be installed to deliver hot water at a maximum of 50°C at the
hot water outlet.
NOTE: This may be achieved by fitting a thermostatic mixing valve, during modifications, to
the outlet. Such a valve regulates water pressure and temperature to provide a safe,
predetermined flow of hot water.

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 4.9 SINKS AFTER MODIFICATION

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4.5.7 Cooktops Circulation spaces and clearances shall be as for sinks (see Clause 4.5.6).
Cooktops shall have controls which do not require reaching over the hotplates to adjust them.
Controls shall have raised cross-bars for ease of grip.
Cooktops shall have an adjacent work surface of 800 mm minimum length at the same height.
Cooktops should be provided with isolating switches or gas stop valves which can be easily
and safely operated while the cooktop is in use.
4.5.8 Ovens Ovens shall be located adjacent to a work surface in accordance with
Clause 4.5.5 (see Figure 4.10). Where the oven door is hinged, the clear work surface shall
be on the opposite side to the hinge.
NOTES:
1 Consideration should be given to the initial position of the oven to obviate the need for future
adjustment.
2 The drop-down type of oven door which does not slide away is not recommended as it limits
reach for wheelchair users.
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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 4.10 OVENS

4.5.9 Microwave ovens Provision shall be made for a microwave shelf to be installed or
replaced at any height between 750 mm and 1200 mm above the floor.
4.5.10 Storage Adequate storage shall be provided. Cabinets, drawers and shelf storage
areas should be as follows:
(a) Depth of shelving up to 800 mm above the floor should not exceed 600 mm; shelving
from 800 mm up to 1500 mm should not exceed 450 mm depth, shelving above
1500 mm from the floor should not exceed 300 mm depth. Shelving should be
adjustable.
(b) At least one shelf of all cabinets and storage shelves mounted above a work surface
should have a maximum depth of 400 mm and be located no higher than 1200 mm
above the floor level.

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(c) Door pulls or handles for wall cabinets shall be capable of operation without a firm
grip and should be installed within 150 mm of the bottom edge of cabinet doors. For
base cabinets, door pulls or handles should be installed within 150 mm of the top edge
of the doors. Minimum 50 mm clearance shall be provided between the handle and any
obstruction.
NOTES:
1 D handles or similar are preferred.
2 Overhead cupboards should not be located over cooktops, corner benches, sinks or tubs.
(d) Full height cupboards including general, linen or pantry cupboards shall be built
without false floors. Shelving shall be adjustable and removable.
4.5.11 Power outlets General purpose outlets shall be located to comply with AS 1428.1.
At least one double general purpose outlet shall be located with a horizontally accessible
reach over a work surface at a maximum of 300 mm from the front of the work surface.
The GPO for the refrigerator shall be easily reachable when the refrigerator is in its operating
position.
4.5.12 Floor covering See Clause 4.9.
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4.6 BEDROOMS
4.6.1 Bedroom areas At least one bedroom shall be capable of accommodating a queen
size bed and a wardrobe and the circulation space requirements of AS 1428.2 clear of
wardrobe fixtures.
4.6.2 Window sills Sleeping area window sills should be at a maximum 600 mm above
floor level.
NOTE: This is to facilitate an outlook through the window by those people who may be confined
to bed for extended periods.
Full height glazed panels or door units where provided shall have a transom at 600
to 730 mm above floor. The glazing shall be of safety glazing materials in accordance with
AS 1288.
4.6.3 Power outlets A minimum of two double socket general purpose outlets shall be
provided on the wall of the bedroom where the bedhead is likely to be located. GPOs should
be provided to opposite walls in the main bedroom. These should be approximately 1800 mm
apart. Height to be in accordance with Clause 4.11.1.
4.6.4 Light switches Two-way light switches should be provided, one located near the
planned bed position. Height to be in accordance with Clause 4.11.1.
4.6.5 Telephone A telephone outlet should be provided in each bedroom next to the bed
on the side closest to the door.
4.6.6 Television outlet A television outlet should be provided in each bedroom on the
opposite wall to the bedhead, adjacent to the double GPO.
4.6.7 Sliding doors to wardrobe Wardrobe sliding doors are desirable, with a full length
mirror on the most accessible door.

4.7 LIVING AREAS

4.7.1 Circulation space Provision shall be made for circulation space to enable a 360°
wheelchair turn after the furniture has been placed.
NOTE: An area of 2250 mm minimum diameter after the furniture has been placed will satisfy this
requirement.

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4.7.2 Windows Living area window sills should be at a maximum 730 mm above floor
level.
Full height glazed panels or door units where provided shall have a transom at 600
to 730 mm above floor. The glazing shall be of safety glazing materials in accordance with
AS 1288.
4.7.3 Power outlets A minimum of four double GPOs should be provided in the living
room. Height to be in accordance with Clause 4.11.1.
NOTE: Power outlets are relevant for maximizing potential layouts of television sets, etc. which
are important to those people with disabilities who may be shut in.
4.7.4 Telephone A telephone outlet shall be provided in the living-dining area. This
should be adjacent to a GPO.
4.7.5 Television outlets Two television outlets should be provided in the living area; one
location to enable viewing from dining and kitchen. Locate television outlets adjacent to
GPOs.
4.7.6 Security screens Exterior doors and windows should have the capability for fitting
security screens.
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4.8 LAUNDRY AREAS If a separate room is used for a laundry, circulation spaces at
doors shall be in accordance with AS 1428.1. Provision for adequate circulation space shall
be made in front of or beside appliances and under or adjacent to the tub to enable people
who use wheelchairs to use all the facilities.
NOTES:
1 An area of 1550 mm diameter will satisfy this requirement.
2 For a work surface height of 870 mm a tub of maximum depth 210 mm is necessary to allow
knee space underneath. Where a full depth laundry tub is provided knee space shall be provided
beside it.
In addition:
(a) There shall be a clothes drying facility. Where a clothes line is provided, an accessible
path of travel shall be provided to the clothes line.
(b) Taps should be set in such a position that neither front-loaded nor top-loaded washing
machines are precluded.
(c) Taps should be positioned at the side of the laundry tub for ease of access.
(d) Hot water systems shall be installed to deliver hot water at a maximum of 50° Celsius
at the hot water outlet.
NOTE: This may be achieved by fitting a thermostatic mixing valve, during modifications, to
the outlet. Such a valve regulates water pressure and temperature to provide a safe,
predetermined flow of hot water.
(e) Provision shall be made for an automatic washing machine.
(f) Provision should be made for a clothes drier mounted at a suitable height.
NOTE: A floor-mounted drier is preferable.
(g) A double GPO shall be provided as a minimum.
(h) A shelf should be provided at maximum 1200 mm above floor.

4.9 FLOORS
4.9.1 Floor surfaces including bathrooms, laundries, toilets and all external paved surfaces
shall be slip-resistant to comply with AS/NZS 3661.1.

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4.9.2 The design shall be such that, after modification, the following are possible:
(a) If changes in level are unavoidable, these should be highlighted by changes in texture
and colour and a handrail provided on both sides.
(b) If carpets are installed they should have a short pile.
NOTE: A very firm underlay to prepared substrate is preferred since otherwise wheelchair
manoeuvrability is unwieldy.
(c) The floor surface throughout the adaptable housing unit shall be easily cleanable.
(d) Consideration should be given to the fire hazard indices of carpets.
(e) Bold patterned floor surfaces should be avoided as these can be confused with changes
of level by people with vision impairment.

4.10 LIGHTING An even degree of light particularly along paths of travel shall be
available throughout the building (i.e. more than one single light bulb may be required in
each room). Provide a level of maintenance illuminance to comply with AS 1680.1.
NOTE: A level of illumination of 150 lux would be suitable in most instances. This level allows
for lip reading by people with impaired hearing. (See AS 1428.2).
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The lighting and power reticulation shall be such that recommended lux levels for people
with visual impairment may be achieved without rewiring. Provision shall be made for the
recommended illumination levels for different rooms for people with visual impairment are
shown in Table 4.1.

TABLE 4.1
RECOMMENDED ILLUMINATION LEVELS
FOR PEOPLE WITH VISION IMPAIRMENT

Illumination level (Lux)

Area For people with
General
vision impairment
Entries and passages 50–150 300
Steps, stairs and ramps 50–160 350

NO TE: The higher level of

illumination on steps and stairs is
required for safety reasons
Living areas 110–200 300–350
Kitchens — general 160 300
— task lighting 240 550–600
Laundries — general 100 300
— task lighting 250 550–600
Toilets 80 300–350
Bathrooms — general 100 300–350
— task lighting 200 550–600
Bedrooms 50–150 300
Garages — general 50 300
— task lighting 200 550–600

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Where illumination levels in a given area need to be varied from time to time, a dimmer
switch should be installed.
Lighting should be designed for non-glare, with an easy-to-change or long-life light source.
Wherever possible, natural lighting should be provided in laundries and hallways.
4.11 ANCILLARY ITEMS
4.11.1 Switches and power points These shall be as follows:
(a) Switches Light switches shall be located at a height not less than 900 mm nor more
than 1100 mm above the finished floor and in line with the door handles. Switches
shall be located adjacent to door handles where practical. Two-way switching is
preferred.
NOTE: Rocker action, toggle or push pad switches with a recommended width of 35 mm are
preferred. For people with severe finger or hand disabilities, these allow convenient operation
by arm or elbow.
(b) Power outlets Except as elsewhere described, GPOs shall be located at a height of not
less than 600 mm, with a preferred height of 1000 mm, above the finished floor and
in line with the door handles. GPOs shall be located not less than 500 mm horizontally
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from internal corners. (See Figure 4.11.)

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 4.11 HEIGHTS FOR SWITCHES, GENERAL PURPOSE OUTLETS

AND DOOR HANDLES

4.11.2 Electrical distribution board The electrical distribution board should be located
inside the housing unit and be accessible.
4.11.3 Additional telephone outlets The main living area should be prewired for a second
outlet.

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4.11.4 Windows Operating controls should be located in an accessible position.

4.11.5 Linen storage A linen storage cupboard of minimum 600 mm width, with
adjustable shelving should be provided.
4.11.6 External areas Provision should be made for the following facilities which may
be required after adaptation:
(a) Garbage Garbage storage area which is accessible from the housing unit and which
is connected to an accessible path leading to an off-site disposal point.
(b) Wheelchair storage Secure, weather-protected outside storage facilities for
wheelchairs.
(c) Charging facilities Secure facilities for recharging wheelchair batteries along with an
external, weatherproof GPO.
NOTE: Some wheelchair batteries emit hazardous fumes while being recharged and therefore
require a well-ventilated recharging location.
(d) Guide dog accommodation Paling fence minimum 1500 mm height with grassed area
for toileting and provision for doggy door entrance on door nearest to grassed area.
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4.11.7 Fire safety items For guidance on fire protection items such as fire blankets and
related measures, e.g. emergency procedures, see HB 46.

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APPENDIX A
SCHEDULE OF FEATURES FOR ADAPTABLE HOUSING
(Normative)

This schedule is a list of essential features to be incorporated into a housing unit for it to be
termed an ‘Adaptable House’. A higher level of ‘Adaptable House’ classification may be
achieved by incorporating some or all of the desirable elements.
It is intended that this schedule be also used as a checklist to record the features incorporated.
CLASSIFICATION LEVELS
Adaptable house class A All essential and all desirable features incorporated.
Adaptable house class B All essential and 50% desirable features incorporated, including
all those notated ‘first priority’.
Adaptable house class C All essential features incorporated.
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First priorit y
Essential Desirable
Item desirable
Room/Item Clause No.
No. Required Certif ied Proposed Certif ied Proposed Certif ied
feature by feature by feature by
DRAWINGS
1 Provision of drawings showing the
housing unit in its pre-adaptation and 2.3
post-adaptation stages
SITING
2 A level or gently sloping sit e wit h up
to 1:14 gradient 3.2.2
3 A conti nuous accessible path of travel
fr om str eet fr ontage and vehicle
parking to entr y complying with AS 3.3.2
1428.1
4 Additi onal paths and walkways to be
continuous, slip-r esistant and hard-
surf aced with gradients complying 3.3.2
with AS 1428.1
5 Within a residential estate
development, common use facil it ies 3.3.3
to be accessible
6 Within a residential estate
development, street names with house 3.3.3
numbers at each intersecti on
7 Within a residential estate
development, internal roadways to be 3.3.3
separate fr om pedestri an walkways
SECURITY
8 Pathway li ghti ng shall be positi oned
at low height to avoid glare and to 3.6.1
provide min. 50 lux at ground level
9 Clear line of sight from a well -l it
vehicle drop-off point to safe 3.6.2
pedestri an entr y point

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 33 AS 4299—1995

First priorit y
Essential Desirable
Item desirable
Room/Item Clause No.
No. Required Certif ied Proposed Certif ied Proposed Certif ied
feature by feature by feature by
LETTERBOXES IN ESTATE
DEVELOPMENTS
10 Within residenti al estate
developments, letterboxes centrall y
located adjacent to str eet entr y. 3.8
Lockable
11 Lett erboxes to be on hard standing
area connected to accessible pathway 3.8
12 Lett erbox area roofed and in a well li t
locati on 3.8
13 Parcel rack included wit h lett erboxes 3.8
PRIVATE CAR
ACCOMMODATION
14 Carparking space or garage min. area
6.0 m × 3.8 m 3.7.2
15 Roof to car parking space 3.7.1
16 Internal clearance of garage or carport
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2.5 m min. 3.7.2

17 Provision for power- operated roll er
door to garage 3.7.2
18 Covered access to dwelli ng unit 3.7.3
19 Il luminati on level min. 50 lux 4.10
ACCESSIBLE ENTRY
20 Accessible entry 4.3.1
21 Entr y protected by porch or similar 4.3.1
22 Accessible entry to be level
(i .e. max. 1:40 slope) 4.3.2
23 Threshold to be low-l evel 4.3.2
24 Landing to enable wheelchair
manoeuvrabil it y 4.3.2
25 Accessible entry door to have
850 mm min. clearance 4.3.1
26 Weatherproofed entr y door 4.3.3
27 Door lever handles and hardware to
AS 1428.1 4.3.4
28 Provision for combined door/securit y
door 4.3.5
29 Potential min. il luminati on level 300
lux 4.10

EXTERIOR: GENERAL
30 All external doors to be keyed ali ke 4.3.4
31 Provision for securi ty screen to
exteri or opening or sli ding windows 4.7.6
and doors
INTERIOR: GENERAL
32 Internal doors to have 820 mm min.
clearance 4.3.3
33 Internal corr idors min. width of
1000 mm 4.3.7
34 Provision for compli ance with
AS 1428.1 for door approaches 4.3.7
35 Window sill s at max. 730 mm above
fl oor level to li ving and 600 mm 4.7.2. and
above floor level to bedroom areas 4.6.2

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 AS 4299—1995 34

First priorit y
Essential Desirable
Item desirable
Room/Item Clause No.
No. Required Certif ied Proposed Certif ied Proposed Certif ied
feature by feature by feature by
LIVING ROOM & DINING ROOM
36 Provision for circulation space of
min. 2250 mm diameter 4.7.1
37 Minimum 4 double GPOs 4.7.3
38 Telephone adjacent to GPO 4.7.4
39 Telephone outl et locati on between
kitchen and li ving space, adjacent to 4.7.4
GPO
40 Two TV antenna outlets adjacent to
GPO (positi oned so viewing fr om 4.7.5
dining and kit chen is achievable)
41 Potential ill umination level min. 300
lux 4.10

KITCHEN
42 Minimum width 2.7 m (1550 mm
clear between benches) 4.5.2
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43 Provision for circulation at doors to

comply wit h AS 1428.1 4.5.1
44 Provision for benches planned to
include at least one worksurface of
800 mm length, adjustable in height 4.5.5
fr om 750 mm to 850 mm or
replaceable. Refer to Figure 4.8
45 Refr igerator adjacent to work surf ace 4.5.5
46 Kitchen sink adjustable to heights
fr om 750 mm to 850 mm or 4.5.6
replaceable
47 Kitchen sink bowl max. 150 mm deep 4.5.6
48 Tap set capstan or lever handles or
lever mixer 4.5.6(e)
49 Tap set located within 300 mm of
fr ont of sink 4.5.6(e)
50 Installati on of thermostatic mixing
valve 4.5.6(f)
51 Cooktops to include either front or
side controls wit h raised cross bars 4.5.7
52 Cooktops to include isolating swit ch 4.5.7
53 Worksurf ace min. 800 mm length
adjacent to cooktop at same height 4.5.7
54 Oven located adjacent to an
adjustable height or replaceable work 4.5.8
surf ace
55 Provision for microwave oven at
height of 750 mm–1200 mm above 4.5.9
fl oor
56 Central light wit h second light over
sink. Potenti al il luminati on level min.
300 lux with 550 lux over work 4.10
surf aces
57 Adjustable shelving: depth 600 mm
max. up to 800 mm above fl oor;
depth 450 mm max. from 800 to 4.5.10
1500 mm above fl oor; depth 300 mm
max. above 1500 mm

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 35 AS 4299—1995

First priorit y
Essential Desirable
Item desirable
Room/Item Clause No.
No. Required Certif ied Proposed Certif ied Proposed Certif ied
feature by feature by feature by
58 Locate handles towards the top of
below bench cupboards and towards
the bottom of overhead cupboards. 4.5.10
Provide ‘D’ pull handles
59 GPOs to comply with AS 1428.1. At
least one double GPO within 300 mm 4.5.11
of fr ont of worksurface
60 GPO for refri gerator to be easily
reachable when the refri gerator is in 4.5.11
it s operating positi on
61 Slip-r esistant fl oor surface 4.5.4
MAIN BEDROOM
62 At least one bedroom of area
suff icient to accommodate queen size
bed and wardrobe and cir culati on 4.6.1
space requirements of AS 1428.2
63 Two double GPOs on wall where
4.6.3
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bedhead is likely to be
64 Minimum of one GPO on opposite
wall 4.6.3
65 Telephone outl et next to bed on the
side closest to door (wit h GPO 4.6.5
adjacent to telephone outlet)
66 TV antenna point and double GPO on
opposite wall to bedhead 4.6.6
67 2-way li ght switches, one located
above bed. 1000 mm high above fl oor 4.6.4
68 Potential ill umination level 300 lux 4.10
69 Sliding doors on wardrobe wit h full
length mirr or 4.6.7

OTHER BEDROOMS
70 Two double GPOs on one wall.
Minimum of one GPO on opposite 4.6.3
wall
71 Two-way light swit ch 4.6.4
72 Telephone outl et next to double GPO 4.6.5
73 TV antenna point adjacent to one
GPO 4.6.6
74 Potential ill umination level 300 lux 4.10
BATHROOM
75 Provision for bathroom area to
comply wit h AS 1428.1 4.4.1
76 Slip-r esistant fl oor surface 4.4.2
77 Shower recess- no hob. Minimum size
1160 × 1100 to comply wit h
AS 1428.1. (Refer Figures 4.6 and 4.4.4(f)
4.7)
78 Shower area waterproofed to AS 3740
with fl oor to fall to waste 4.4.4(f)
79 Recessed soap holder 4.4.4(f)
80 Shower taps positi oned for easy reach
to access side of shower sliding track 4.4.4(f)
81 Shower waste min. 80 mm diameter 4.4.4(f)

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 AS 4299—1995 36

First priorit y
Essential Desirable
Item desirable
Room/Item Clause No.
No. Required Certif ied Proposed Certif ied Proposed Certif ied
feature by feature by feature by
82 Provision for adjustable, detachable
hand held shower rose mounted on a
slider grabrail or fixed hook 4.4.4(h)
(plumbing and wall - str engthening
provision)
83 Provision for grabrail in shower
(Refer to Figure 4.7) to comply wit h 4.4.4(h)
AS 1428.1
84 Provision for additi onal grabrail 4.4.4(h)
85 Provision for folding seat in shower
to comply with AS 1428.1 4.4.4(h)
86 Tap sets to be capstan or lever
handles wit h single outl et 4.4.4(c)
87 Installati on of thermostatic mixing
valve 4.4.4(b)
88 Provision for washbasin wit h
clearances to comply wit h AS 1428.1 4.4.4(g)
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89 Wall cabinet with li ght over or

similar 4.4.4(d)
90 Double GPO beside mirr or 4.4.4(d)
91 Potential ill umination level 300 lux
generall y wit h 600 lux task lighting 4.10

TOILET
92 Provision of eit her ‘visit able toilet’ or
accessible toil et 4.4.3
93 Provision to comply wit h AS 1428.1 4.4.1
94 Locati on of WC pan at correct
distance fr om fi xed wall s 4.4.3
95 Provision for grab rail zone.
(Refer Figure 4.6) 4.4.4(h)
96 Slip resistant floor surf ace.
(Vit reous til es or simil ar) 4.4.2
97 Recessed toilet roll holder 4.4.3
LAUNDRY
98 Circulation at doors to comply with
AS 1428.1 4.8
99 Provision for adequate cir culati on
space in fr ont of or beside appli ances 4.8
(min. 1550 mm depth)
100 Provision for automati c washing
machine 4.8(e)
101 Provision for drier 4.8(f)
102 Where clothes li ne is provided, an
accessible path of tr avel to this 4.8(a)
103 Installati on of thermostatic mixing
valve 4.8(d)
104 Taps posit ioned at side of tub 4.8(c)
105 Double GPO 4.8(g)
106 Provision of shelf for soaps and
similar, 1200 mm max. height 4.8(h)
107 Potential ill umination level 300 lux
generall y wit h 550 lux task lighting 4.10
108 Slip-r esistant fl oor surface 4.9.1

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 37 AS 4299—1995

First priorit y
Essential Desirable
Item desirable
Room/Item Clause No.
No. Required Certif ied Proposed Certif ied Proposed Certif ied
feature by feature by feature by
STORAGE
109 Linen cupboard min. 600 mm wide
with adjustable shelving 4.11.5

DOOR LOCKS
110 Door hardware operable wit h one
hand, located 900–1100 mm above 4.3.4
fl oor
FLOOR COVERINGS
111 Slip resistant surfaces — balconies
and external paved areas. 4.9.1
(Vit reous til e or similar)
ANCILLARY ITEMS
112 Swit ches located 900–1100 mm above
fl oor in line wit h door handles 4.11.1
113 GPOs located not less than 600 mm
above floor 4.11.1
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114 Electr ical distri buti on board located

inside housing unit 4.11.2
115 Window controls located in an
accessible positi on 4.11.4

GARBAGE
116 Provision for bin in an accessible
locati on 4.11.6
117 Provision for external wheelchair
storage 4.11.6
118 Provision for external battery
charging facili ty 4.11.6
119 Guide dog accommodati on 4.11.6

IMPLEMENTATION The Table indicates essential/desirable categories and the level

required of the feature noted. All essential items are pre-checked in the ‘essential’ features
column. The independent certifier must initial the second column to confirm the item has
been incorporated into the building.
The developer/builder shall indicate which ‘first priority desirable’ and ‘desirable’ features
are intended to be incorporated in the ‘adaptable house’ by checking the relevant boxes. The
independent certifier must initial the second column to confirm the item has been
incorporated into the building.
Upon addition of the number of ‘first priority desirable’ and ‘desirable’ features provided,
and conversion to a percentage of the total possible desirable features, the classification level
can be ascertained.
The certifier should sign the checklist as to the class of adaptable housing achieved.
No. of desirable features incorporated
Add number of first priority desirable features
Total = % of
64 possible desirable features
NOTE: Minimum 50% must be achieved for class B certification; 100% must be achieved
for class A certification.

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 AS 4299—1995 38

Adaptable house class C achieved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Certifier

Adaptable house class B achieved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Certifier

Adaptable house class A achieved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Certifier

ADAPTABLE HOUSE CLASSIFICATION

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 39 AS 4299—1995

APPENDIX B
EXAMPLE OF ADAPTABLE HOUSE PLAN
(Informative)

An example of a floor plan that may result from compliance with the requirements of this
Standard is shown below. For required spatial dimensions refer to the relevant Clauses.
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FIGURE B1 EXAMPLE OF ADAPTABLE HOUSE DESIGN

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 AS 4299—1995 40

APPENDIX C
WEATHERPROOFING OF EXTERNAL DOORS
(Informative)

This Appendix shows examples of details for excluding water at thresholds.

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FIGURE C1 (in part) EXAMPLES OF WEATHERPROOFING OF EXTERNAL DOORS

COPYRIGHT
 41 AS 4299—1995
Licensed to Michael Wiegmann on 17 Sep 2004. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

NO TE: Minimum overhang 1600 mm must be observed.

FIGURE C1 (in part) EXAMPLES OF WEATHERPROOFING EXTERNAL DOORS

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 AS 4299—1995 42

APPENDIX D
EXAMPLE OF ACCESSIBLE COMBINED SANITARY FACILITIES
(Informative)
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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETERS

FIGURE D1 EXAMPLE OF COMBINED SANITARY FACILITIES

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 43 AS 4299—1995

APPENDIX E
KITCHEN AREA LAYOUT
(Informative)
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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETERS

FIGURE E1 EXAMPLE OF KITCHEN LAYOUT — BEFORE ADAPTATION

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 Licensed to Michael Wiegmann on 17 Sep 2004. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

AS 4299—1995

FIGURE E2
44

COPYRIGHT
DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

EXAMPLE OF KITCHEN LAYOUT — AFTER ADAPTATION