How wide do doorways need to be for wheelchair accessibility in a basement?

Doorways in basement renovations must be a minimum of 32 inches clear width for wheelchair accessibility, though 36 inches is strongly recommended for better maneuverability and future-proofing.

The Ontario Building Code (OBC) requires 32 inches of clear opening width for accessible doorways, measured between the face of the door and the stop when the door is open 90 degrees. However, experienced contractors typically recommend going with 36-inch clear width whenever possible, as this provides much more comfortable navigation for wheelchair users and allows for easier furniture moving.

For basement renovations in Ottawa, this translates to installing 36-inch or 38-inch door frames to achieve the proper clear width. The frame width is always larger than the clear opening due to the door thickness and hardware. When planning your basement layout, remember that the approach to the doorway is equally important - you'll need 18 inches of clear space on the pull side and 12 inches on the push side of the door for proper wheelchair maneuvering.

Secondary dwelling units and rental suites have additional accessibility considerations under Ottawa's zoning requirements. While not all basement apartments need to be fully accessible, incorporating accessible design elements increases your potential tenant pool and property value. The main entrance to a secondary suite should also meet these width requirements, and if you're adding an egress window for emergency exit, consider the accessibility of that route as well.

Professional installation is crucial for accessible doorways because proper alignment, hardware placement, and threshold details all affect usability. Door hardware must be operable with one hand and mounted between 34-48 inches high. Thresholds should be beveled and no higher than ¼ inch to prevent wheelchair hang-ups.

When planning your basement renovation, consider the entire accessible path - from the main floor entrance down to the basement (if applicable), through hallways, and into rooms. This holistic approach ensures your investment creates truly functional space. For a comprehensive accessibility assessment and proper installation of accessible doorways in your basement project, contact Ottawa Basements for a free consultation.