Housing Accessibility Standards for New Rental Builds in England

Many tenants and renters in England expect new rental homes to be accessible, but it can be hard to know what standards apply and what steps to take. This guide explains accessibility rules for new rental builds, how they affect basic tenant rights, and the practical steps renters can use to request adaptations or challenge non-compliance. It covers how accessibility is set through building regulations and disability law, when to contact your landlord or local council, and how to take a concern to the property tribunal. The language is plain and the examples focus on what a tenant should do today, including who to contact and which official forms may be needed.

What accessibility standards mean for new rental builds

New rental homes in England are commonly guided by the building regulations for access and use of buildings, known as Approved Document M. ^[1] These rules set design expectations for things like step-free entrances, wider doorways, accessible toilets and space for mobility aids. While building regulations set the technical standards, tenancy law determines how those features affect your rights as a renter under the Housing Act and related landlord-tenant rules. ^[2][3] If you rely on an adaptation for disability needs, the Equality Act may also require reasonable adjustments by a landlord.

Official forms and when tenants use them

Tenants may need to use official forms or applications to request adaptations, claim funding, or respond to notices. Below are common examples, with simple tenant-focused examples.

• Disabled Facilities Grant application — used to ask your local council for funding to make a home adaptation (for example, installing a ramp or level-access shower); apply when a healthcare professional recommends an adaptation and you need council funding.^[5]
• Section 21 possession information and template guidance — used by landlords to give notice to repossess a property under an assured shorthold tenancy; tenants should check the notice for correct timing and prescribed information and seek advice if something looks wrong (for example, missing deposit protection details).^[6]
• Section 8 procedure guidance — used when a landlord claims rent arrears or other specified grounds for possession; tenants served a Section 8 notice should note the grounds stated and gather evidence showing payments or repairs where relevant.^[7]

How to request an accessibility adaptation

1. Check whether the building was designed against Approved Document M or similar standards and note any missing features.
2. Contact your landlord or managing agent in writing to explain the adaptation you need and why, and keep a copy of your message.
3. Submit a Disabled Facilities Grant application or request council assistance if you need financial help for adaptations.
4. Keep records: photos, emails, professional recommendations and receipts to show why the adaptation is needed.
5. Allow reasonable access for inspections or assessments by the landlord, council or contractors so the work can be arranged.
6. If the landlord refuses or ignores the request, apply to the First-tier Tribunal or start a complaint within official timeframes and keep evidence of attempts to resolve the issue.

FAQ

What accessibility features must a landlord provide in a new rental build?

Landlords should provide features required by building regulations for new builds such as step-free access where designed, wider doors in dwellings designed for accessibility, and basic facilities that allow safe occupation; specific details depend on the building type and the certification it was built to. ^[1]

Can I request an adaptation if I have a disability?

Yes. You can ask your landlord for reasonable adjustments and also apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant through your local council if you need funding for structural changes. If a landlord refuses, you can gather evidence and consider seeking tribunal help. ^[5][4]

What if my landlord serves a notice after I request accessibility changes?

Check that any notice (for example, a Section 21 or Section 8 notice) follows the correct legal form and timing; keep copies of your adaptation requests and seek advice or tribunal support to challenge improper notices. ^[6][7]

How-To

1. Write a clear request describing the adaptation you need and how it will help you use the home.
2. Send the request in writing (email or letter) and ask for confirmation of receipt.
3. Gather supporting documents: a professional recommendation, medical evidence, and estimates for the work.
4. Apply for funding such as a Disabled Facilities Grant if you need assistance to pay for works.
5. Agree reasonable times for inspection and keep records of appointments and outcomes.
6. If there is no satisfactory response, start an application to the First-tier Tribunal and include your correspondence and evidence.

Key Takeaways

• New rental builds are guided by building regulations that set minimum accessibility features.
• Always make adaptation requests in writing and keep copies of all communications.
• Use available funding routes like Disabled Facilities Grants and keep evidence for any tribunal application.

Help and Support / Resources

• Access to and use of buildings (Approved Document M)
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
• Disabled Facilities Grants

1. [1] Access to and use of buildings (Approved Document M)
2. [2] Housing Act 1988 (legislation.gov.uk)
3. [3] Rent Act 1977 (legislation.gov.uk)
4. [4] First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) guidance (GOV.UK)
5. [5] Disabled Facilities Grants (GOV.UK)
6. [6] Giving a section 21 notice (GOV.UK)
7. [7] Evicting a tenant: guidance including section 8 (GOV.UK)