Stairs, Guards and Falls
Plain English guidance on stairs, guarding, handrails and fall protection in new build homes.
Stairs, landings, guards, handrails and changes in level are important safety areas in a new build home. In Wales, Approved Document K provides guidance on protection from falling, collision and impact.
Why stairs and guarding matter
Stairs and changes in level are used every day, so visible issues can quickly become frustrating or concerning. Homeowners may notice uneven finishes, loose handrails, damaged balustrades, awkward steps, poor making good or gaps around guarding.
Where there are visible concerns around stairs, guards, handrails or fall protection, they should be recorded clearly and raised with the developer or relevant professional.
Common issues homeowners may notice
Stair finish and damage
Stairs may show visible damage, poor decoration, loose trims, rough finishes, creaking, damaged nosings or incomplete making good.
Handrails
Handrails should be checked for secure fixing, damage, poor finish, loose brackets, rough edges or incomplete decoration.
Balustrades and guarding
Guards, balustrades and spindles should be checked for damage, looseness, poor alignment, gaps, missing parts or poor finishing.
Landings and level changes
Landings, steps and changes in level may show uneven finishes, trip concerns, poor junctions or incomplete works.
External steps and thresholds
External steps, entrance thresholds and changes in level should be checked for visible damage, poor finish, awkward transitions or practical access concerns.
Finishing around stairs
Walls, skirtings, stringers, trims and decoration around stairs may show gaps, cracks, staining, rough making good or poor paintwork.
Where Approved Document K may be relevant
Approved Document K may be relevant when considering protection from falling, collision and impact, including stairs, ramps, guarding and certain changes in level. It is part of the Building Regulations guidance for Wales.
This article is a plain English overview for homeowners. It is not Building Control approval, legal advice or a full technical assessment.
Where snagging fits in
A professional snagging inspection records visible defects, damage, incomplete work, poor finishes and workmanship concerns.
A snagging inspection is not the same as Building Control approval and does not replace decisions made by Building Control, warranty providers or other relevant bodies.
Where a visible stairs, guarding or fall protection issue may relate to Building Regulations guidance, warranty standards, safety, workmanship or manufacturer guidance, it can be recorded clearly so the homeowner has evidence to raise with the developer or relevant party.
Key takeaway
Stairs, guards and fall protection issues should be recorded clearly with photographs, locations and descriptions. Approved Document K may be relevant to protection from falling, collision and impact, but homeowners should keep the difference clear between snagging evidence, Building Control approval and warranty provider decisions.
Need your new home inspected?
South Wales Snagging Co provides independent snagging inspections across South Wales, helping homeowners identify visible defects clearly and raise issues with confidence.