External Elevator & Addition to an Existing Building: The Complete Guide to Permits and Costs

The lack of an elevator in a building, whether it is a residence or a professional space, currently represents a serious accessibility barrier and a significant cause for the depreciation of the property’s value. The solution for buildings where there is no relevant provision or internal space is insufficient, is the installation of an external elevator. At Bibikas Lift, we undertake the study and installation of such projects, providing a solution to the problem of mobility. In this guide, we answer critical questions regarding permits, placement, technical specifications, and cost.

When an External Elevator is the Only Way

Installing an external elevator is usually the only solution in the following cases:

No internal shaft exists: In old apartment buildings or structures where no space was provided for an elevator during the original construction.
The stairwell “eye” is insufficient: When the clear opening between the stairs is extremely small (e.g., dimensions smaller than 1.00 x 1.00 meter) and is not enough to accommodate a conventional cabin with the necessary safety specifications.
Structural issues: When opening holes in the slabs within the building is prohibited for reasons of structural stability and safety of the frame.

Do you have a gap of just 1 sq.m. in the stairwell? There is a solution for internal placement

Before you definitively decide on external placement, it is worth measuring the “eye” of your stairs again. If you have a space of approximately 1 square meter available, Bibikas Lift has the solution for internal installation without major renovations. The Cibes A4000 is an extremely compact elevator that fits almost anywhere and is ideal for limited spaces, saving you from the need for external construction. See the features of the Cibes external elevator.

The Case of Old Apartment Buildings

Special mention must be made of old apartment buildings, as Greece has a large number of buildings constructed before 1980 that do not have an elevator. The installation of an external system in these cases radically upgrades the quality of life for residents, especially the elderly, and sharply increases the market value of the apartments. However, every old apartment building has its own peculiarities and requires careful study for the harmonious integration of the elevator into the surrounding area.

External Elevator and Permits: What the Legislation Provides

The legal framework has been significantly simplified in recent years (New Building Regulation – NOK, Law 4067/2012 and Article 27), especially when the installation concerns serving People with Disabilities (PWD) or persons with mobility issues. In most cases, a Small-Scale Construction Work Approval (EEDMK) is required, which is issued faster than a standard building permit. A prerequisite is the preparation of a technical study by a qualified engineer.

Regarding the consent of co-owners, while unanimity was previously required, now, if the installation is done for accessibility reasons for PWD (even if no PWD resides in the building, but for potential use), the installation can proceed with a majority or, in special cases, even without the consent of the General Assembly, at the expense of the interested party.

Where it Can Be Placed

Choosing the location is the most critical stage of the study. The external elevator can be placed in the Uncovered Space (backyard), which is the most common and easiest urban planning solution. It can also be placed in the Front Yard (Prasia), which is permitted under certain conditions, provided accessibility is ensured and no other feasible solution exists. Another option is placement adjacent to the Stairwell, by opening the stairwell masonry on each floor to create doors. Finally, in cases where there is no other access, the installation can be done on Balconies, by cutting a section of the balconies for the shaft to pass through, as long as structural stability is not affected.

“Shaftless” External Elevator: Myths and Truths

A frequent search concerns external elevators without a shaft. While there are open lifting platforms on the market, at Bibikas Lift, we do not recommend them as a primary solution for apartment buildings. An elevator exposed to rain, humidity, and dust will malfunction faster, while an open system reduces the safety and aesthetics of the building.

Our recommendation is the construction of a metallic shaft (Steel Shaft). Instead of concrete, we build a metallic frame clad either with glass (Triplex/Securit) for panoramic views and natural light, or with panels (Etalbond/Cement board) for economy and durability. This offers the advantages of a lightweight construction without the disadvantages of lacking protection.

Installation Cost

The cost is not fixed, as every project is unique. The final price depends on the number of stops (floors), the type of mechanism (Hydraulic or Mechanical MRL), the construction of the shaft (a glass shaft has a higher cost than panel cladding), and the necessary construction work, such as balcony cuts, foundation, and electrical power supply.

The installation of an external elevator is a complex technical project that requires the cooperation of engineers and elevator technicians. At Bibikas Lift, we perform an inspection to find the optimal position, guide you regarding licensing, and offer high-aesthetic solutions.