The obligation to create accessible community pools in Spain depends mainly on the accessibility regulations in force and the requests of neighbors with disabilities. These regulations are regulated in the General Law on the Rights of People with Disabilities and their Social Inclusion (RD 01/2013) and in the autonomous or local regulations, in addition to the Horizontal Property Law (LPH).
In addition, the Technical Building Code (CTE) establishes, in its Basic Document on Safety of Use and Accessibility (DB-SUA), the requirements for buildings to be accessible. It applies to newly constructed buildings or those undergoing significant reform.
In summary we can say that it is mandatory to adapt a pool in a community of neighbors by default in all new construction or extensively renovated communities. In older communities it is not mandatory by default but becomes so if requested by a neighbor with a disability or over 70 years old, and provided that the costs do not exceed the stipulated legal limit (not to exceed 12 ordinary monthly community expenses). If it exceeds this limit, it is optional, unless the community decides to assume the cost.
One of the best solutions to facilitate the accessibility of the community pool is to install a hydraulic pool lift. Its easy installation (without the need for major works), its high resistance, minimum maintenance and its comfort and autonomous operation are factors for which many communities of neighbors choose the ACCESS lifts (manufactured in Spain).
Regulations on accessibility to swimming pools in Spain
According to Royal Legislative Decree 1/2013, of 29 November, approving the Revised Text of the General Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and their Social Inclusion General Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and their Social Inclusion, establishes the obligation to carry out the necessary reforms, either by installing lifts or pool hoists, with ramp works or other mechanical or electronic devices in the facilities, so that these comply with the basic conditions of accessibility and non-discrimination.
In addition, we also find in article 10 of the Horizontal Property Law, the obligation to carry out these reforms so that anyone can use the common elements.
In addition to making swimming pools accessible, these changes should also be moved in the Jardino or other sports areas. This regulation only affects public facilities or communities of neighbors. We must remember that it is the responsibility of all owners to provide the possibility to facilitate access and avoid situations of discrimination due to disability to ensure that all persons belonging to the community enjoy the same benefits.
The costs of the reforms will be the responsibility of the owners of the properties provided that the amount involved annually of the works, net of subsidies and public aid, does not exceed twelve ordinary monthly payments of common costs.
How to make a community pool accessible?
To facilitate access to the pool for anyone, the community has to authorize the installation of a pool lift. One of the most recommended solutions is a hydraulic pool hoist with an ergonomic chair that facilitates access to the pool.
There are also other options such as works, changing stairs for ramps (provided that the dimensions of the pool allow it), but it must be said that the safest, fastest and easiest option is the installation of a lift for People with disabilities.
The regulations described above, does not establish what type of equipment or solution has to be applied, it is the community who chooses this decision depending on the needs of the facilities and owners. What is mandatory is that the accessibility elements are approved to comply with the safety features, approval and autonomy.
Access offers accessibility solutions for public and private pools, we help solve accessibility problems with our approved pool lifts, so that all pools comply with current accessibility regulations and all people can enjoy the benefits of swimming regardless of their condition.
The new ACCESS B5 model has recently become the most demanded option by communities of neighbors. Its compact structure, sleek design and more affordable price make it the ideal lift for homeowners' community pools.
Examples of community swimming pools accessible with ACCESS
Accessible community swimming pool in Barcelona:
Lift model: ACCESS B4
Location: Barcelona
A community of neighbors located in Barcelona has installed a Access B4 lift in their community pool to facilitate access to the water, especially for one of their neighbors with reduced mobility.
Now Sandra can freely enjoy the community pool. Moreover, she will be able to do so without the need for assistance thanks to the autonomy offered by the lift with its double drive from inside and outside the pool
Community swimming pool accessible to residents A. López de Madrid:
Lift model: ACCESS B1
Location: Madrid
The community of neighbors installed in 2021 a hydraulic lift ACCESS B1 in their community pool to facilitate access to water for all residents, especially adapting to the needs of two of their neighbors with mobility problems and the elderly who also live there.