
Barrier-free conversion – when are the costs and effort worthwhile?
Anyone who wants to spend their retirement in their own home should start thinking about barrier-free conversion at an early stage. This is because age-appropriate conversion is usually a major undertaking. Two or three conversion measures are often not enough. In many cases, questions also arise as to whether the measures are financially worthwhile and how they will affect the value of the property. A local quality real estate agent can advise you on this topic.
What measures need to be taken?
First, owners need to find out how extensively their property needs to be adapted. In most cases, it makes sense to go beyond the obvious measures such as stair lifts and barrier-free showers and think further ahead. For example, removing door thresholds and widening doors in case someone needs to use a wheelchair. To find out which measures are necessary and sensible, property owners should consult a real estate expert. In many cases, the measures that can be implemented depend on the nature and condition of the property. A professional real estate agent can provide advice based on their experience and expertise or refer you to an expert in barrier-free conversion.
What are the costs?
In order to obtain a realistic estimate of the costs involved in barrier-free conversion, property owners should definitely consult a real estate professional. This is because the costs vary depending on the property. In the short term, small conversions can make living in your own property easier. In the long term, however, further measures may be necessary. Owners who want to carry out the conversion work as far as possible in advance and in one go often find that the costs are higher than expected and that they cannot avoid taking out a loan.
What are the legal requirements?
Legal requirements for the barrier-free design of residential buildings are set out in DIN 18040-2. This standard regulates requirements such as movement areas in rooms, traffic areas, Minimum depth of fixtures and fittings, minimum width of doors and passageways, and the installation of wheelchair-accessible furniture in kitchens and bathrooms so that wheelchair users can easily access kitchen worktops and sinks.
Do you have any questions about barrier-free conversion of your property? Then get in touch with us. We will be happy to advise you.
Further information can be found here:
- kfw.de: Age-appropriate conversion
- pflege-durch-angehoerige.de: Subsidies for disability-friendly conversions
Legal notice: This article does not constitute tax or legal advice in individual cases. Please consult a lawyer and/or tax advisor to clarify the facts of your specific case.
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