Short-Term Lets: Accessibility Obligations in Northern Ireland

Short-term renters in Northern Ireland often wonder what landlords must do to make a property accessible. This guide explains your rights as a tenant, when landlords must provide reasonable adjustments, and how accessibility duties interact with the Private Tenancies Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. You will find clear steps for raising concerns, the official forms to use, and what evidence to collect if an issue is not resolved. The article also explains how the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) considers accessibility disputes and where to get practical help. It is written for tenants and renters, using plain language so you can act confidently whether you need a repair, a change for disability access, or to start a formal complaint.

What accessibility obligations apply to short-term lets?

Landlords must provide safe, habitable accommodation and take reasonable steps to accommodate disability-related needs. In Northern Ireland the Private Tenancies Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 underpins tenancy rules and interacts with equality duties on reasonable adjustments; see the legislation for full text: Private Tenancies Act (Northern Ireland) 2022^[1].

Where a tenant has a disability, the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland provides guidance on discrimination and how to request reasonable adjustments from a landlord. If a landlord will not agree to sensible changes, you may be able to use official complaint routes or seek tribunal review. For practical, nation-specific guidance about private tenancies and dispute resolution see the Northern Ireland government guidance: nidirect: Private Tenancies Act 2022^[2].

Reasonable adjustments: common examples

• Entry: install a removable ramp or clear a threshold to improve access for wheelchair users.
• Repairs: fit or repair grab rails, secure bathroom supports or fix faulty heating that affects mobility or health.
• Document: keep dated photos, written notes and receipts for any work or interactions about the issue.
• Notice: request the change in writing and keep a copy of the request and any landlord response.

How to raise an accessibility concern

• Submit a written complaint to your landlord describing the adjustment you need, how it affects you and the remedy you seek.
• Record evidence: photos, dates, medical notes or support letters that explain why the adjustment is necessary.
• Contact support: get help from local tenant advice services, the Housing Executive or the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland if needed.
• Apply to the appropriate tribunal or use formal dispute routes if the landlord refuses or ignores your request.

FAQ

Can a landlord refuse reasonable adjustments for a short-term let?

Landlords can refuse only when a requested adjustment is unreasonable or would cause disproportionate cost or damage. You should ask for an explanation in writing and keep a copy for records.

How long should I give a landlord to make an adjustment?

Give a reasonable time based on the work required and any safety concerns; specify a clear deadline in writing and keep proof you sent the request.

Where can I appeal if my adjustment request is refused?

You can contact the Equality Commission for advice and, if relevant, pursue a tribunal application or landlord–tenant dispute resolution through official channels in Northern Ireland.

How-To

1. Collect evidence: take dated photos, keep copies of messages and gather any medical or support letters.
2. Write to the landlord: explain the adjustment you need, why it is necessary, and set a reasonable deadline.
3. Seek advice: contact local tenant advice or the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland for guidance on next steps.
4. Use formal routes: submit the required forms or applications to the appropriate tribunal or dispute resolution body if the issue is not resolved.

Help and Support / Resources

• nidirect: Private Tenancies Act 2022 guidance
• Equality Commission for Northern Ireland
• nidirect: dispute resolution and tribunal information

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1. [1] Private Tenancies Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 - legislation.gov.uk
2. [2] nidirect: Private Tenancies Act 2022 guidance
3. [3] Equality Commission for Northern Ireland