Disclaimer and important information

This site is for general information only

The Stairs is a free, general guide to UK staircases and the building regulations that apply to them, published by The Stair Guys, independent staircase measuring and sourcing specialists. It is written to help you understand the subject and ask better questions. It is not a survey, a specification, a structural opinion, or professional advice for your specific project.

We have not seen or measured your space

Every staircase sits in a real opening with its own dimensions, structure and constraints. The figures, examples and rules of thumb on this site are general and cannot account for your particular building, its condition, or exactly how the regulations apply to it. Nothing here should be treated as a measurement, a design, or sign-off for your staircase.

Building regulations change and differ by nation

England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland each have their own rules, and those rules are updated over time. We work hard to keep this site accurate, but we cannot guarantee that every figure is current or that it applies to your situation. Always check the current regulations for your nation and, where it matters, confirm with your local building control or a competent professional.

You use this information at your own risk

To the fullest extent permitted by law, The Stair Guys and Sproutiva Ltd (which owns this site) accept no liability for any loss, damage, cost or injury arising from any decision you make, or action you take, based on the information on this site. If you are planning, buying, building or fitting a staircase, get the space surveyed and the staircase specified properly before you commit. That is the whole point of what we do.

Last updated: 12 July 2026.