Barrier-free conversion - when are the costs and effort worthwhile?

Many homeowners want to remain living in their own four walls in old age. But at the latest when climbing stairs becomes increasingly difficult, many think about a barrier-free conversion. But when is it worth the cost and effort?

If you want to spend the rest of your life in your own home, you should think about a barrier-free conversion at an early stage. This is because an age-appropriate conversion is usually a major undertaking. Two or three conversion measures are often not enough. In many cases, there are also questions as to whether the measures are financially worthwhile and how they will affect the value of the property. A local quality estate agent can advise you on this topic.

What measures need to be taken?

First of all, owners need to find out how extensively their property needs to be adapted. In most cases, it makes sense not only to implement the obvious measures such as a stair lift and barrier-free shower, but also to think further ahead. For example, removing door thresholds and widening doors in case you are dependent on 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 estate agent can provide advice based on their experience and expertise or put you in touch with an expert for barrier-free conversions.

What are the costs?

In order to obtain a realistic estimate of the costs of a 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 become necessary. Owners who want to carry out the renovation work as proactively as possible and in one go often find that the costs are higher than expected and cannot avoid taking out a loan.

What are the legal requirements?

Legal requirements for the barrier-free design of residential buildings can be found in DIN 18040-2, which regulates requirements such as movement areas in rooms, circulation areas, minimum depth of furnishings and the minimum width of doors and passageways, as well as the installation of furniture with wheelchair access in kitchens and bathrooms so that wheelchair users can easily reach kitchen worktops and washbasins.

Do you have any questions about the barrier-free conversion of your property? Then contact us. We will be happy to advise you.

Further information can be found here:

https://www.kfw.de/inlandsfoerderung/Privatpersonen/Bestehende-Immobilie/F%C3%B6rderprodukte/Altersgerecht-Umbauen-(159)/?wt_cc1=wohnen&wt_cc2=pri|bestandimmobilie&wt_mc=6918175651_213337444717&wt_kw=b_6918175651_%2Bbarrierefrei%20%2Bkfw&wt_cc3=6918175651_kwd-357644252097_213337444717

https://www.pflege-durch-angehoerige.de/so-nutzen-sie-alle-zuschuesse-fuer-einen-behindertengerechten-badumbau-optimal-aus/

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 individual case.

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