How to Make Your Properties More Accessible

As a landlord, it’s essential to ensure your properties are accessible to all, including tenants with disabilities. It is a legal requirement under the Equality Act 2010 to accommodate them.

To create accessible properties, landlords should start by understanding the different types of disabilities and their unique needs. This will help you make informed decisions about the modifications and adaptations necessary to accommodate your tenants. You can consult resources such as the UK government’s Equality and Human Rights Commission for guidance.

1. Assess Your Property

Before making any changes, assessing your property to identify potential barriers is crucial. This might include steps at the entrance, narrow doorways, steep staircases, or inadequate bathroom facilities. A professional accessibility audit can be a valuable investment to help you pinpoint areas that require modification.

2. Adapt the Entrances

The entryway to your property should be step-free and easily navigable by tenants who use mobility aids like wheelchairs or walkers. Consider installing ramps or sloping paths, as well as handrails, for added stability.

3. Widen the Doorways

One of the most common barriers for tenants with disabilities is narrow doorways. To make your property more accessible, consider widening doorways to at least 32 inches to accommodate wheelchairs. Additionally, lever handles are easier to use than traditional knobs.

4. Install Handrails and Grab Bars

Installing handrails and grab bars in key areas of your property, such as the bathroom and bysteps, can greatly enhance safety and accessibility. These fixtures provide support and stability for tenants with mobility challenges.

5. Make Adaptions to the bathrooms

The bathroom is a crucial area to consider. Adaptations may include installing a walk-in shower with a fold-down seat, non-slip flooring, and adequate space for manoeuvring a wheelchair. Lowering the sink and toilet to a comfortable height is also essential.

6. Consider Flooring

Opt for non-slip, easy-to-clean flooring throughout the property. This helps prevent slips and falls and makes it easier for wheelchair users to move around.

7. Adequate Lighting

Good lighting is important for tenants with visual impairments. Ensure that your property is well-lit, especially in hallways and staircases. Motion sensor lighting can also be a helpful addition.

Other Factors to Consider…

Communication Accessibility

Consider installing visual and auditory aids such as doorbells with flashing lights and intercom systems for tenants with hearing impairments.

Flexible Lease Terms

Be open to accommodating reasonable requests from tenants with disabilities. This might include allowing them to make minor modifications to the property, like adding handrails or adapting kitchen countertops to suit their needs.

Make Your Communications and Documentation accessible

Ensure that your property listings and communications are accessible to all potential tenants. This means providing information in various formats, such as large print, braille, or electronic text for screen readers.

Conclusion

Creating accessible properties is not just a legal requirement but also a moral responsibility. By making your rental properties more inclusive, you not only expand your tenant base but also contribute to a more diverse and equitable society. When tenants with disabilities find homes that cater to their needs, it improves their quality of life and fosters a sense of belonging. So, as a landlord in the UK, embrace the opportunity to make a positive impact by ensuring your properties are accessible to all.