What should an inspector evaluate regarding stairways in a home?

Evaluating stairways in a home is crucial for ensuring safety and accessibility. The height, width, and presence of handrails are fundamental components of stair design that directly affect their usability and safety.

The height of the risers (the vertical part of the step) must conform to building codes to prevent tripping hazards and to accommodate comfortable use by people of all ages. The width of the treads (the horizontal part of the step) is also important to ensure enough space for footing, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

Additionally, having handrails is essential for providing support and stability when using the stairs. Building codes typically specify requirements for the height, placement, and strength of handrails to ensure they can adequately assist individuals, especially those who may have mobility challenges.

While aspects like the type of material used for the stair treads, the stairway's weight capacity, and even aesthetic considerations like color and design are relevant in specific contexts, they do not take precedence over the safety features that height, width, and handrails represent. Safety should always be the primary focus for inspectors when evaluating stairways.