Landlords provide homes to a range of tenants, with a variety of needs, including disabled and elderly people. With an aging population it’s becoming increasingly important that privately rented homes are suitable for those with access needs. Here are our top tips on how to make your property more accessible.
An aging population means the demand for accessible properties in the private rented sector is set to continue to rise over the coming years. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) projects that here will be a 101 percent increase in the population aged 85 and over by 2030. By considering adaptations now, you could be opening your doors to disabled tenants and those with additional needs, who are seeking long term homes.
Any adaptations that you make to a property will vary, depending on the individual’s specific needs. However, it’s important to keep in mind that although adaptations won’t be suitable or necessary for all tenants, some will still be of great benefit to a wide range of people. Tenants with disabilities have a right to request changes that will help them. The Equality Act 2010 calls these changes ‘reasonable adjustments’.
A lot of people assume that home adaptations look clinical and can affect how desirable the property is for renters. However, adaptations can be installed in a modern and attractive way, potentially increasing marketability. So, what type of adaptations can be made?
Major adaptations
- Stairlifts
- Ramps
- Shower access and wet rooms
- Kitchen adaptations
- Automatic doors
Minor adaptations
- Door entry systems
- Window and door opening mechanisms
- Lever taps
- Grab rails and stair rails
Will there be disruption for the tenant?
Typically, people assume that this type of work means that the tenant must move out. However, this is uncommon, as many adaptations can be completed whilst the tenant is still living in the property. In exceptional cases, where the tenant needs to be moved out temporarily while works are happening, the local council may be able to assist with arranging temporary accommodation - this includes providing funding.
Who pays for adaptations?
As a landlord, you are not required to fund adaptations, but you are responsible for providing permission for the adaptation to be made. Self-funding is also an option if this is something you wish to do.
Local councils provide funding for adaptations in England. Social care services usually fund minor adaptations and major adaptations are funded through a Disabled Facilities Grant. In Wales, small adaptations are normally supported by council social care services or the Rapid Response Adaptations Programme, and medium and large adaptations are usually funded by a Disabled Facilities Grant.
Effective communication between you and your tenant is key when discussing adaptations. Make sure you develop a full understanding of your tenant’s requirements, before agreeing to a course of action. Ultimately, adaptations help tenants, and those caring for them, to live a better-quality life and can provide them with more independence.