Installing a lift at home can transform how you move through your space, especially for multi-storey homes in Melbourne, Sydney, and across Australia. But before you start planning your residential lift, it’s important to understand the standards and regulations that govern home lift installations.
This guide walks you through AS 1735 and DDA compliance requirements, helping you make informed decisions about installing a lift at home.
Why standards matter
When it comes to home lifts, safety isn’t optional. Australian standards exist to protect you, your family, and anyone who uses your lift.
These regulations cover everything from structural integrity to emergency systems, ensuring your residential lift operates reliably for years to come.
Beyond safety, compliance matters for practical reasons. Your insurance policy may require adherence to Australian standards, and non-compliant lifts can create liability issues if someone is injured. If you’re installing a lift at home as part of a renovation or new build, you’ll also need proper approvals from your local council or a registered building surveyor.
Home lifts and commercial lifts follow different regulatory pathways. While commercial lifts face stricter requirements due to higher usage and public access, residential lifts must still meet robust safety standards. Home lift requirements are more straightforward, particularly for internal installations that don’t require major structural changes.
What is AS 1735
AS 1735 is the Australian Standard that governs the design, installation, and maintenance of lifts, escalators, and moving walks. For homeowners, two parts are particularly relevant: AS 1735.12 focuses on accessibility requirements for people with disabilities, while AS 1735.15 covers low-speed lifts often used for residential installations.
At its core, AS 1735 mandates several key safety features. Every home lift must include emergency stop buttons, door sensors to prevent accidents, and emergency communication systems. These requirements ensure your lift can be used safely in your home.
The standard also specifies minimum dimensions and clearances. For wheelchair accessibility, AS 1735.12 requires a minimum cabin size of 1100mm width by 1400mm depth, with a clear door opening of at least 880mm. Control buttons must be positioned between 900mm and 1200mm from the floor, making them accessible to wheelchair users.
Most home lifts are rated for 320kg to 400kg capacity, accommodating multiple passengers or a wheelchair user plus companion. Pit depth and headroom requirements vary by lift type, with traditional traction lifts typically needing 250mm to 300mm pit depth and 2800mm to 3200mm overhead clearance. Modern designs often minimise these requirements, making installation easier in existing homes.
DDA Compliance in private homes
The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) primarily applies to public and commercial buildings, but it’s increasingly relevant in residential contexts. If you’re building a multi-dwelling property or a mixed-use development with both residential and commercial spaces, DDA compliance becomes mandatory. In these scenarios, your lift must meet the same accessibility standards as a commercial building.
For private single-family homes, DDA compliance isn’t legally required. However, many homeowners choose to incorporate DDA principles into their home lift design. Why? Because accessibility features make your home more inclusive for family members, guests, or future occupants with mobility challenges. They also add value if you decide to sell.
Practical accessibility features include voice announcements for floor levels and door movements, Braille markings on control panels, and handrails positioned within easy reach of the control panel. Even if you don’t need these features today, designing for accessibility ensures your home remains liveable as your needs change.
Design Integration Considerations
Installing a home lift involves more than selecting a model. Proper integration with your home’s structure and systems is essential for safety and performance.
Shaft sizing is your first consideration. The lift shaft must accommodate the cabin, guide rails, counterweights, and clearances for safe operation. Your home lift provider will specify exact dimensions, but expect a footprint of around 1500mm by 1500mm for standard residential lifts.
Structural requirements can’t be overlooked. Your home’s floors and roof must support the additional loads from the lift shaft, machinery, and passengers. In existing homes, you’ll likely need an engineer to assess whether reinforcement is needed.
Electrical needs for home lifts are typically modest, with most running on standard single-phase power (220V to 240V). Your electrician will need to install dedicated circuits with appropriate safety switches.
Landing space must comply with AS 1735 requirements. At each floor, you need adequate space for passengers to enter and exit safely, typically at least 1500mm of clear space in front of the lift doors.
Don’t forget signage, alarms, and ventilation. Each landing should have clear floor indicators (both visual and tactile), and your lift cabin needs adequate ventilation and manageable noise levels.
The Approval Pathway
Before your home lift can be installed, you’ll need to navigate the approval process. For many internal residential lifts, this process is relatively straightforward.
If your lift installation doesn’t involve major structural changes, you may not need formal council approval in some states. Victoria, for example, typically doesn’t require approval for small internal lifts. However, structural modifications or external additions will need a building permit.
Your home lift provider should supply documentation showing their lift complies with AS 1735, including technical specifications, load testing certificates, and electrical safety certifications. A registered building surveyor will typically inspect your installation at key stages to ensure everything meets the Building Code of Australia.
Working with experienced lift installers makes this process smoother, as reputable providers understand approval requirements and can guide you through documentation and compliance.
Making the Right Choice
Understanding Australian standards for home lifts helps you make informed decisions about installing a lift at home. Whether you’re planning a home lift in Melbourne, Sydney, or elsewhere in Australia, compliance with AS 1735 ensures your installation is safe, reliable, and fit for purpose.
At Goldenhome Lifts, all our residential lifts meet AS 1735 standards, giving you peace of mind that your installation complies with Australian regulations. Our team handles the technical complexity, working with building surveyors and providing all necessary documentation, so you can focus on enjoying the benefits of improved accessibility in your home.
Ready to explore your options? Contact our team to discuss how we can help you navigate standards, approvals, and installation for your home lift project.
