Easy Steps

SCOPE:

To construct timber steps to create a large tread and low rise to provide easy access into the dwelling.

The Housing Modification Schedules shall be read in conjunction with sketches/drawings and summary schedule sheet provided by the Specialised Housing Assessor and the Agreement for Contractor Services
Where a site visit has not been undertaken to ascertain the conditions, levels, boundary positions, access etc. no variations will be given by reason of ignorance of the site or existing site conditions
The easy steps are to be constructed in the location shown on the proposed sketch plans and summary sheet. Any variations are to be approved by the Specialised Housing Assessor and Enable New Zealand
A building consent is required if a person can fall more than one metre from the easy steps and/or landings. The Contractor shall arrange to obtain all necessary consents from the local Territorial Authority
All work must comply with the Building Act, relevant clauses of the NZ Building Code and product manufacturer specifications
The Contractor shall provide necessary protection to the client and other person/s from holes, unsafe building, falling and other hazards
Damage resulting from failure to protect adequately will be made good at the Contractor's expense
The easy steps shall be constructed by skilled tradespeople using best trade practice and materials.

The structure of the easy steps must provide adequate strength and stability for all users
Grades of timber are specified in the National Grading Rules. The timber shall be free from shakes, loose knots, and gum streaks. Sub-standard or warped timber shall not be used
All exposed woodwork shall be machine dressed with the edges arised. Remove all hammer bruises, rough and uneven patches
All nails shall be punched below the surface of the timber
All timber shall be thoroughly seasoned or kiln dried. Framing timber shall have moisture content of less than 24%
All timber shall be treated to NZTPA Hazard Class H.3 and H.4 Group B Specification.

Posts shall be 100x100mm spaced evenly at maximum 1.8 metre centres, extended through to support the handrail at the recommended height
Posts are to be set into a 300x300mm square 300mm deep concrete footing. Alternatively the posts may be attached to galvanised Bowmac connectors with bolt fixings. Any concrete used shall be 17.5Mpa after 28 days
Timber bearers are to connect to the posts using 12mm diameter galvanised bolts. Stringers are to be fixed to the existing wall using 12mm galvanised dynabolts.
The joists are to be fixed to the bearers
The surface of the treads of the easy steps and landing shall be of a non-slip finish without gaps, lips or uneven surface. Nails shall be punched below the ramp surface. The decking timber shall be 100x40mm pinus radiata tread decking, H3 treated and laid at right angles to the direction of travel
The entry and exit to the easy steps shall be formed with smooth thresholds avoiding sudden changes in level
The height of the top platform/landing is to align with the existing doorsill to minimise changes in level and an excessive up stand.

Windows with opening sashes over the easy steps shall be fitted with restrictors to avoid open sashes projecting over the easy steps
Allow to relocate fixtures such as hose taps, as necessary for the ramp installation. Ensure access is maintained to the existing gully traps and subfloor access.
Handrails are to be positioned as recommended on the Specialised Housing Assessor sketch and summary schedule sheet
Handrails shall be shaped to provide a profile that is easily grasped by the person. The handrail shall be securely fixed to support posts or building to ensure it does not flex or move
The handrails must be continuous for the length of ramp and all junctions formed are to be smooth and secure. The handrails shall extend 300mm beyond entry and exit of ramp
The handrail is to be packed off the posts or wall to ensure, under normal use, the person's hand will not contact the post or wall or other obstructions.

Ministry of Health Funding will not cover the following: