Vancouver council passes new accessible homes bylaw

Vancouver City Council has passed a motion requiring all newly-built homes be more accessible for seniors and people with disabilities.

The rules will also apply to all major home renovations in the city bringing them up to date with new accessibility standards.

The updated bylaws include wider doorways and hallways along with measures like having lever handles on doors.

But some homebuilders are warning the changes could bring thousands of dollars in unforeseen costs.

The new rules are set to come into effect next year.