Universal service obligation
Inclusive design in essential services, a guide for regulators, published by Fair By Design and the Money Advice Trust in 2021, suggests universal service obligations are: ‘…obligations which ensure that defined basic services, considered essential in current social and economic conditions, are available to all on request at an affordable cost. In the UK there are universal service obligations in relation to postal services, telecoms and broadband.’
See also: Broadband universal service obligation (USO).
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- A-Z of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
- Access audit.
- Access consultant.
- Accessibility.
- Approved Document M.
- BREEAM Inclusive and accessible design.
- Broadband universal service obligation (USO).
- Diversity.
- Equality Act.
- Equality.
- Inclusive design.
- Infrastructure.
- People with disabilities.
- Protected characteristics.
- Services.
- Wheelchair user.
Featured articles and news
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Guide to ISO 19650 for Architecture Firms (2026)
A user gives their low down.
A UK training and membership provider for mould remediation professionals.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
Independent NSI and BAFE study exploring how organisations are changing the way they buy fire safety services.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.
The UK's campaign to reduce noise pollution: Mythbusting, articles and topic guides.