When it comes to home inspections, stairwell safety is often a top priority for experienced inspectors. Stairwells are common in most homes, but they can pose serious safety risks if not properly maintained or built. Slips, trips, and falls on stairs constitute a large portion of household injuries each year, making stairwell safety a vital part of every inspection.
In this blog, the professionals at HomePro Inspections will cover the basics of stairwell safety and explain what every home inspector checks during a home inspection. Whether you’re a homeowner preparing for an inspection or someone aiming to improve your home’s safety, understanding key stairwell safety principles will help keep your household secure.
A dilapidated stairwell
Why Stairwell Safety Matters
Stairs are more than just a way to move between levels—they serve as a central point for household traffic and, unfortunately, potential accidents. A poorly built or maintained stairwell can become dangerous, especially for children, older adults, or anyone with mobility issues. According to national safety statistics, thousands of injuries happen every year because of unsafe stairwells, many of which could be avoided with proper upkeep and regular home inspections.
Key Stairwell Safety Inspection Points
During a home inspection, the home inspector will assess various aspects of a stairwell to ensure it meets safety standards. Here are the key checkpoints:
· Stair Dimensions and Layout: Steps should be of consistent height and depth, usually with a rise between 7 and 8 inches and a tread depth of at least 10 inches. Uneven stairs pose a trip hazard and must be fixed.
· Handrails: Strong, secure handrails are essential for stairwell safety. During a home inspection, the inspector will verify that handrails are installed at a proper height (usually between 34 to 38 inches above the tread) and extend continuously along the staircase. Loose or missing handrails are noted as a safety issue.
· Guardrails and Balusters: For stairwells open on one or more sides, guardrails and balusters prevent falls. A home inspector will verify that guardrails are at least 36 inches high and that balusters are spaced no more than 4 inches apart to stop children from squeezing through.
· Lighting: Proper lighting is crucial for stairwell safety. Poor illumination increases the chance of missteps and falls. A home inspection will evaluate whether stairwells have sufficient lighting at both the top and bottom of the stairs and if light switches are easily accessible.
· Headroom: Stairwells must offer at least 6 feet 8 inches of clearance. Lack of enough headroom can lead to accidents and will be noted during a thorough home inspection.
· Structural Integrity: The home inspector will check for signs of wear, damage, or instability in the staircase structure, such as creaking, loose steps, or rot. Any issues compromising the stairs' structural integrity must be repaired immediately for safety.
Common Stairwell Safety Hazards Discovered During Home Inspection
A seasoned home inspector has encountered a range of stairwell safety hazards, including but not limited to:
· Loose or missing handrails
· Worn or slippery tread surfaces
· Improper step dimensions
· Inadequate lighting
· Obstructions on stairs, such as clutter, carpets, or rugs that can shift
· Insufficient headroom or clearance
· Unsafe guardrail height or spacing
Tips for Homeowners to Help Improve Stairwell Safety
While a home inspection by a certified inspector will identify specific issues, homeowners can take proactive steps to enhance stairwell safety daily.
· Keep stairs clear. Do not place objects, shoes, or decorations on stairs. Even small items can be trip hazards.
· Install sufficient lighting. Opt for bright bulbs, and think about motion-activated lights for added convenience.
· Fix loose or broken steps. Quickly repair any creaks, cracks, or instability in the stair structure.
· Add non-slip treatments. Non-slip strips, carpet runners, or textured paint can help prevent slipping in areas where necessary.
· Check and maintain handrails. Inspect handrails regularly to ensure they are secure and properly anchored.
· Childproof the stairwells. If you have young children, install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs and regularly check that baluster spacing is safe.
Summary
Remember, stairwells should never be overlooked. Stairwell safety is a vital but often neglected part of homeownership. Regular maintenance and proactive upgrades form the backbone of a safe household. By understanding the key features of a safe stairwell, you can keep your home a secure and inviting space for everyone. At HomePro Inspections, we are trained to look for these issues when inspecting a home. Any problems are documented and recommended for resolution by a qualified professional.
Visit our website to learn more or to schedule your home inspection in the Rochester, Owatonna, and Faribault, MN areas. You can contact us today at (507) 202-8942, email us, or use our online “Schedule Now” feature to schedule an appointment.