Disability Access Certificate (DAC)
What is this licence?
A disability access certificate is an approval by the building control authority. It certifies that the proposed design of the building is in compliance with Part M of the Building Control Regulations.
When do I need it?
It is best practice to apply for your Disability Access Certificate at the same time as applying for your Fire Safety Certificate. A Disability Access Certificate is required for the following classes of buildings. It is also potentially required for a converter station.
New building construction and extensions
A DAC is required for the construction of a new building, or to extend a building by more than 25 square meters.
Material alterations
You'll need a DAC for material alterations (excluding minor works) of a:
- Day centre
- Hotel, hostel or guest building
- Institutional building
- Place of assembly
- Shopping centre
It's also needed for the material alteration of a shop, office or industrial building where:
- The building is being subdivided into units for separate occupancy
- Additional floor area is being provided within the building
Material change of use
It's also needed for the material change of use into one of the following:
- Day centre
- Hotel, hostel or guest building
- Institutional building
- Place of assembly
- Shop (which is not ancillary to the primary use of the building)
- Shopping centre
How to apply
Contact your local authority to apply for a DAC. It can take up to eight weeks for a decision to be made on a valid application. It may take longer if this is agreed with you in advance.
Fees
The fee for a DAC is set at €800 per building. It is €500.00 per building where there is a concurrent application of a DAC with an FSC. There is no sq.m application fee for a DAC.