As a landlord in Indiana or Indianapolis, ensuring your rental properties comply with safety standards is crucial.
Not only for your residents’ well-being, but to protect you from some pretty massive liability.
We get it, handrails aren’t flashy or exciting. But, they are vital for maintaining building safety and code compliance and limiting your liability.
This blog will explore handrail laws and ordinances that landlords need to follow in Indiana, with a focus on Indianapolis regulations:
General Handrail Requirements in Indiana
Indiana adopts building codes from the International Building Code (IBC) and the International Residential Code (IRC). These codes outline specific guidelines for handrails:
- Height Requirements
- Handrails must be installed at a height of 34-38 inches from the stair nosing.
- Continuity
- Handrails should be continuous along the full length of the stair or ramp, except at landings or turnings.
- Gripability
- Handrails must be graspable to ensure safe usage.
- Circular handrails should have an outside diameter of not less than 1 ¼” and not greater than 2”.
- Square or rectangular handrails should have a perimeter of not less than 4” and not greater than 6 ¼” (dimensions of all 4 sides added together) with a cross section of not more than 2 ¼”. Edges shall have a radius of not less than 0.01”.
- Dimensional lumber such as 1×4’s, 2×4’s, 1×6’s, 2×6’s, etc. do not meet the requirements for a graspable handrail.
- Spacing from Wall
- Handrails must have at least 1 1/2 inches of clearance from the wall to allow a secure grip.
- Ends
- The ends of handrails must return to the wall or terminate in a way that prevents snagging.
- Number of Handrails
- Stairs with four or more risers require at least one handrail.
Indianapolis Specific Handrail Requirements
Indianapolis follows the Indiana Residential Code but has additional local requirements that landlords must consider. These include:
- Outdoor Stairs and Decks
- Handrails are mandatory for exterior stairs with four or more risers. Decks or porches elevated more than 30 inches above ground require guardrails, which often integrate handrails.
- Inspections and Maintenance
- Properties must pass regular safety inspections, especially for rental housing. Missing, loose, or damaged handrails can lead to citations during these inspections.
- Historic Properties
- If your rental is in a historic district, additional design or material guidelines may apply. Check with the Indianapolis Historic Preservation Commission (IHPC) for details.
Liability Risks for Non-Compliance
Landlords who fail to comply with handrail laws risk significant consequences:
- Fines: Local housing authorities can impose penalties for code violations.
- Legal Liability: Tenants injured due to inadequate or absent handrails may file lawsuits for negligence.
- Insurance Issues: Non-compliance could affect property insurance claims or premiums.
How to Ensure Compliance
To avoid these risks, landlords should take proactive steps to meet handrail requirements:
- Understand Local Codes
- Familiarize yourself with the IBC and IRC, as well as specific Indianapolis ordinances.
- Conduct Routine Inspections
- Regularly inspect handrails for looseness, wear, or damage. Address issues promptly.
- Hire Professionals for Repairs
- For installation or repairs, use licensed contractors familiar with local building codes.
And as always, we are here to help. If the idea of figuring this all out yourself is overwhelming, it may be time for a property manager. Click the “Let’s Talk” button at the top of the page to discuss your options.
