Which stair renovation is suitable for an apartment building?

An apartment building places different demands on a stair renovation than a private home. The stairwell is a communal space used daily by dozens of people — residents, visitors, parcel couriers, emergency services.

As a result, safety, durability, ease of maintenance and legal requirements play a prominent role in the choice.

Short answer

For apartment buildings, EverStep Solid from Omnistair is the designated choice. The system complies with NEN 7909 anti-slip, fire class Bfl-s1 and has emission performance at Indoor Air Comfort Gold level. As an interim solution without full renovation, GripStep Pro offers anti-slip in accordance with NEN 7909.

Why an apartment building has different requirements

A communal stairwell falls under the responsibility of the owners' association (VvE), the Dutch equivalent of a homeowners' association. That means decisions about renovation are made collectively and the requirements for safety and demonstrable performance are higher than for a private home. The full requirements for professional stairwells can be found in stair renovation for owners' associations and commercial buildings.

Relevant requirements:

• NEN 7909 anti-slip — for communal stairwells. More about the role of grip can be found in why anti-slip matters in apartment buildings.
• Fire class Bfl-s1 — for escape routes.
• Emission performance — relevant where residents spend long periods.

Which system fits?

EverStep Solid — for full renovation. Immediately walkable, NEN 7909, Bfl-s1, emission performance at Indoor Air Comfort Gold level, 4.3 mm thin.

GripStep Pro — as an interim solution when a full renovation is not yet feasible. Complies with NEN 7909 and Bfl-s1.

How does a VvE project proceed?

A VvE project requires a meeting, a quotation, a majority vote and implementation planning. Omnistair supports project preparation and specification texts.

What waiting costs can be found in what postponing stair maintenance costs in an apartment building. And when a VvE should include stair renovation in its long-term maintenance plan helps with the planning.