How to Obtain an Accessibility Compliance Opinion for Premises for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM)

How to Obtain an Accessibility Compliance Opinion for Premises for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM)

What is an Accessibility Compliance Opinion?

An Accessibility Compliance Opinion for Premises for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM) is an official technical document confirming that a facility complies with the requirements of DBN B.2.2-40:2018 “Inclusiveness of Buildings and Structures” and other applicable urban planning and construction regulations.

Such an opinion may be required:

• upon commissioning of a facility;

• for obtaining a license (medical or educational activities);

• for opening a retail establishment, banking institution, or office;

• at the request of local self-government authorities;

• during court proceedings or inspection procedures.

The regulatory framework includes the Law of Ukraine “On Regulation of Urban Development Activities,” the Law of Ukraine “On Architectural Activities,” and the relevant State Building Codes (DBN).

Who Is Authorized to Issue the Opinion?

An accessibility compliance opinion is prepared by certified engineers specializing in technical inspection of buildings and structures or by expert organizations possessing the appropriate qualifications and certifications.

The document must contain:

• information about the contractor (certificate, qualifications);

• description of the facility;

• list of inspected parameters;

• conclusion on compliance or non-compliance with DBN requirements;

• recommendations for elimination of violations (if applicable).

Step-by-Step Procedure for Obtaining the Opinion

Step 1. Preparation of Initial Documentation

The client must provide:

• title documents for the property;

• technical passport;

• design documentation (if available);

• information on the functional purpose of the premises.

If documents are missing or contain discrepancies, it is advisable to first conduct a structural and engineering audit at gbu.kyiv.ua for a comprehensive review.

Step 2. On-Site Inspection of the Premises

Specialists carry out:

• measurement of doorways and corridors;

• assessment of ramps (slope angle, width, handrails);

• verification of an adapted sanitary facility;

• analysis of vertical circulation (elevator, lift);

• inspection of navigation and tactile elements.

Particular attention is paid to compliance with DBN B.2.2-40:2018 parameters.

Step 3. Compliance Analysis with DBN Requirements

The following key indicators are assessed:

• minimum door width (not less than 0.9 m);

• permissible ramp slope (up to 8%);

• wheelchair turning radius;

• accessibility of sanitary facilities;

• availability of a barrier-free route from the entrance to the main premises.

Step 4. Preparation and Issuance of the Opinion

Based on the inspection results, the following are prepared:

• technical report;

• compliance opinion;

• list of identified violations (if any);

• recommendations for adaptation measures.

If the facility does not comply with DBN requirements, technical solutions for eliminating deficiencies are first developed, followed by a repeated inspection.

Common Issues When Obtaining the Opinion

1. Non-compliant entrance width or presence of thresholds.

2. Absence of an accessible sanitary facility.

3. Inability to install a ramp due to architectural constraints.

4. Lack of an elevator in a multi-storey building.

5. Discrepancy between actual layout and the technical passport.

In such cases, development of design solutions or conducting a technical inspection of buildings and structures at gbu.kyiv.ua may be required to determine the feasibility of reconstruction.

How Long Does the Process Take?

Timeframes depend on:

• the area of the premises;

• complexity of the layout;

• availability of design documentation;

• number of identified violations.

On average, preparation of the opinion takes from 3 to 10 business days.

Why Is It Important to Obtain the Opinion Officially?

A duly executed opinion:

• confirms legality of operations;

• minimizes the risk of fines;

• facilitates regulatory inspections;

• increases trust of clients and partners;

• is a mandatory requirement for certain licensing activities.

Conclusions

Obtaining an accessibility compliance opinion for premises intended for persons with reduced mobility is a mandatory step for the opening and lawful operation of many commercial and public facilities in Ukraine.

The company GlobalBud Ukraine provides comprehensive support: from on-site inspection to preparation of an official technical opinion and development of design solutions to eliminate non-compliance.

Our team includes certified engineers and legal professionals with practical experience in urban planning and construction law. We work with individuals and legal entities, including international companies, and provide turnkey services.

Contact GlobalBud Ukraine for professional and legally substantiated assistance in obtaining an accessibility compliance opinion for your premises.