How to find information on accessible housing for people with disabilities?

In France, it is estimated that people with reduced mobility represent between 2% and 3% of the total population. If you find yourself in such a situation and are looking for housing that meets ADA accessibility standards ? In that case, it would be advisable to visit your local town hall, such as the one in Perrignier, where they will be able to provide you with more information.

The role of local government in housing for people with reduced mobility

New constructions coming into being must accommodate a certain percentage of accessible housing for people with reduced mobility. In this instance, the role of the city hall is to ensure that this proportion is strictly maintained. The municipality is itself required to provide this type of housing, as it serves as a social landlord.

Furthermore, your local town hall must be able to inform you of the Departmental Center for Persons with Disabilities (MDPH) in your department, a reception center that can provide you with information, as well as implement projects and initiatives aimed at offering accessible housing for people with reduced mobility. Are you looking for this type of rental? In that case, do not hesitate to contact your local town hall, which can direct you toward vacant housing or to the MDPH.

The ELAN Law Sparks Controversy

On October 16, 2018, the ELAN law was definitively passed by the Senate. While a previous draft proposed making all new residential constructions 100% accessible to people with reduced mobility, the new law recommends that only 20% of these housing units would be compliant with accessibility standards for people with reduced mobility. The remaining 80% would consist of adaptable housing, with the possibility of making modifications to meet the needs of people with disabilities. This has sparked controversy within the political class, as well as among associations advocating for the rights of people with disabilities in France.

Indeed, the ELAN law prevents, for example, hosting individuals in wheelchairs at one’s home under optimal conditions. Nevertheless, certain municipalities have made the decision to mandate streamlined access to all new constructions, which will be added to their rental fleets. You can visit your local town hall to learn more about the measures being implemented in this regard.

What are the key features of accessible housing for people with disabilities?

When constructing a new home, certain features must be implemented to ensure accessibility for people with disabilities. For example, the installation of slip-resistant flooring, parking with sufficient width, doors suitable for wheelchair access, a shower, and toilets and light switches designed for easy access.

Interior design must also take into account a sufficiently large traffic area. Residential amenities, such as meters, mailboxes, or lighting, as well as common areas, must also be accessible to people with disabilities.

Benefits of a wheelchair lift

A unique mobility solution, the wheelchair lift or accessibility elevator—similar to a home lift—offers a safe and convenient way to access your home. A wheelchair elevator can be installed both indoors and outdoors. To meet your specific needs and preferences, wheelchair lifts are available in both enclosed and open versions and are designed with non-slip flooring to ensure safe access in all weather conditions. Pit depth requirements are minimal, meaning a unit can generally be installed more quickly than a traditional elevator. While most commonly installed outdoors, when used indoors, a wheelchair elevator is often placed in a garage or a home entryway.

In terms of appearance and functionality, platform lifts can be finished in virtually any color you desire and can feature solid steel, powder coating, or plexiglass. Unlike a residential elevator, a constant press on the call button is required to summon the lift to the appropriate landing and when a passenger sends the lift to the desired level. Optional elevator features may include an ADA-compliant hands-free telephone, platform emergency lighting, and backup power for outages. A vertical platform lift can be a cost-effective solution to meet your accessibility needs. You can visit this website to learn more.