Building Code Blind Spots: Common Washroom Compliance Failures in Refurbishment
Refurbishing a commercial or public washroom can be a detailed process. While most projects focus on appearance, durability and cost, building code compliance is sometimes overlooked. This can lead to safety issues, failed inspections and expensive changes after completion.
Understanding the most common compliance blind spots helps architects, designers and facilities managers avoid problems. By addressing these areas early, washroom refurbishments can meet building regulations, provide accessibility and protect both users and building owners.
1. Accessibility Oversights
One of the most frequent compliance issues in washroom refurbishments relates to accessibility. Building Regulations Part M sets clear requirements for wheelchair access, manoeuvring space, grab rails and the height of sanitary fittings.
The common mistakes that we have found include:
- Not enough clear floor space around toilets and sinks
- Grab rails and washbasins fitted at incorrect heights
- Doorways too narrow for wheelchair access
- Lack of an accessible cubicle in shared washrooms
Designing for inclusivity from the start avoids costly changes later and ensures the space can be used by everyone.
2. Slip and Trip Hazards
Washrooms are often wet environments, so the flooring plays a major role in keeping users safe. Poor flooring choices can easily lead to slips and trips, which makes this one of the most common causes of compliance failure. The most common include smooth tiles that do not provide enough grip, creating a serious health and safety risk. As well as this, poorly designed drainage can also cause standing water, while uneven thresholds between wet and dry areas make it easy for people to lose their footing.
Choosing flooring with proven slip resistance and ensuring that water drains away correctly are essential steps in meeting safety standards and protecting everyone who uses the washroom.
3. Insufficient Ventilation
Good ventilation is essential for maintaining hygiene and meeting building standards. When airflow is poor, washrooms can quickly develop unpleasant smells, dampness and mould, which can affect both health and the condition of the building. These problems are most commonly caused by ventilation systems that do not provide enough air changes, a lack of extract fans in smaller or windowless spaces, and poor control of humidity in busy washrooms.
This is why planning effective ventilation from the start helps to maintain fresh air, prevent damage to surfaces and ensure the washroom stays in good condition for years to come.
4. Inadequate Sanitary Provision
Sanitaryware specification is another area where projects can fall short of building regulations. The number and type of fixtures should always reflect how many people will use the washroom. Failing to forecast how many people will use the washroom can lead to the common problems which include having too few cubicles or urinals, partitions that do not give enough privacy, and washbasins or taps that are difficult for some users to reach or operate. This is why a careful assessment during the planning stage helps ensure that all facilities are suitable, sufficient and compliant with current standards.
5. Lighting and Signage Failures
Lighting and signage are often given less attention during refurbishment, yet both are essential for safety and accessibility. Poor lighting can make it hard for users to be able to see, which makes things harder when walking around safely, while unclear signage can cause confusion and reduce compliance.
Frequent mistakes include weak lighting in accessible cubicles, emergency or exit lighting that does not meet standards, and signage that lacks enough contrast for people with visual impairments.
It’s important to have a well designed lighting and clear wayfinding not only meet regulations but also create a more comfortable and user friendly space.
6. Electrical and Water Safety Oversights
Because bathrooms use both water and electricity, safety rules must be followed carefully. Electrical checks should be done at the start of any design or refurbishment work. Common problems include power sockets placed near sinks or showers, hand dryers or lights fitted without proper safety checks, and missed routine testing of electrical systems. Using qualified electricians and following current wiring rules helps prevent accidents and keeps every installation safe to use.
7. Steps to Avoid Compliance Failures
To reduce the risk of non compliance during washroom refurbishment:
- Review all relevant building regulations, including Part M, during the design stage
- Consult accessibility and safety specialists early in the process
- Use detailed checklists to confirm flooring, sanitaryware, ventilation, lighting and signage all meet required standards
- Keep records of all specifications, safety data and approvals
- Plan regular inspections and maintenance to support ongoing compliance
Final Thoughts
Washroom refurbishments provide a chance to improve appearance, function and hygiene, but compliance must never be overlooked. From accessibility and flooring to ventilation, lighting and safety, each element plays a role in meeting building code requirements.
By planning carefully and following regulations from the start, designers and facilities managers can create washrooms that are safe, inclusive and built to last. Compliance is not only about following rules; it is about creating spaces that work well for every user, every day.
If you need any further information about creating the right space for your organisation, Inspired Washrooms design, refurbish and fit out commercial washrooms and changing rooms across the UK, turning old spaces into fresh, inspiring places that are ready for everyday use.
To enquire about any of our services or get started on a washroom project, get in touch on 0115 671 3867 and we'll take you through the next steps!