The growing demand for accessible properties in the rental sector means that adaptability is key for landlords looking to attract a wider range of tenants.
Landlords have a responsibility to ensure their properties cater to the needs of disabled tenants, so let’s take a look at what accessible properties are and how you can make the necessary adaptations to them.
For help with managing your let, contact your local Parkers agent today.
What are accessible and adapted properties?
An accessible property is a home where the design and layout is free of barriers that could limit its suitability for some potential buyers or tenants. When a landlord makes changes to a property to allow people with disabilities to live there with ease and safety, it becomes an adapted property.
Key features of adapted properties
Common examples of renovations that make a property accessible include:
- Replacing doorsteps with wheelchair ramps
- Making sure written documents and signs are in braille
- Making sure door handles, taps, and cupboards are reachable
- Widening hallways and doorways
- Installing a step-free shower
- Installing wheelchair-friendly flooring
- Installing indoor and outdoor railing
- Ensuring that any garden space is accessible
Related: Boost your rental property’s value with these 10 smart renovations
What legal responsibilities do landlords have?
The Equality Act 2010 states that it is illegal for a landlord to discriminate against a disabled tenant. This includes:
- Refusing to rent to someone because of their disability
- Refusing to allow a guide dog in the property
- Charging higher rent because of a disability
- Limiting access to facilities that are accessible to other tenants
- Evicting a tenant due to their disability
If a disabled tenant requires you to make an adaptation to the property, they must make a formal request in writing. This request must be reasonable, and the local council will arrange temporary alternative housing for the tenants if the necessary renovations render your property uninhabitable for a period of time.
As a landlord, you are not required by law to remove or alter a property’s physical features. Any feature that is integral to the construction of the property or any fixtures within it are considered physical features. However, things that don’t classify as physical features, such as furnishings, handles, and entry systems, do have to be removed or altered if necessary.
Related: Replacing fixtures and fittings in your rental property
Tips for making accessible adaptations
Understand the legislation
It’s important to familiarise yourself with the legal obligations outlined in the Equality Act 2010, as this will allow you to understand your responsibilities as a landlord. It also equips you with the necessary knowledge to make beneficial and compliant modifications for your tenants.
Offer flexible terms
You should be willing to negotiate flexible terms for your tenants in order to meet their needs and create an inclusive rental environment. Being flexible with your terms will help attract a wider range of tenants, potentially reducing vacancy periods and increasing tenant satisfaction.
Related: Managing void periods and keeping them brief
Communicate with tenants
When making adaptations to your property, communicating with tenants is critical so that you can fully understand their specific needs and work closely with them to modify it appropriately.
Apply for a grant
Both tenants and landlords can apply to the council for a disabled facilities grant, which provides the funds to adapt your property and make it more accessible. An occupational therapist will assess your property and determine what adaptations are necessary before deciding on how large a grant you are eligible for.
