Making Accessibility Changes: Tenant Rights

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Scotland 3 min read · published March 09, 2026 Flag of Scotland
Tenants and renters in Scotland often need to make accessibility changes so a home is safe and usable. This guide explains when you can ask to alter a rented property, how to seek landlord permission, which official forms and laws apply, and what to do if permission is refused. It covers simple adaptations like grab rails, ramps and bathroom changes, plus funding routes and how the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)[2] can help. The language is plain and practical, with steps you can follow, examples, and links to Scottish government and tribunal resources. If you have a disability or long-term support needs, this article aims to help you navigate rights and responsibilities clearly.

What changes can tenants ask for?

Tenants can ask for a wide range of accessibility changes, from grab rails and ramps to wet-floor shower adaptations and widening doorways. Under Scottish private tenancy law tenants and landlords must follow the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016[1], and disability-related protections under the Equality Act 2010 may also apply. Many small adaptations do not need permanent structural works, but some changes will require landlord consent and agreement on who pays and who restores the property at the end of the tenancy.

In most regions, tenants are entitled to basic habitability standards.

How to request permission

Follow these clear steps to make a formal request and protect your record.

  • Check your tenancy agreement for clauses on alterations.
  • Gather evidence: photos, medical letters and reports.
  • Submit a written application or form to the landlord, keeping a copy.
  • Agree a reasonable timescale for works and access.
  • Consider funding applications such as Disabled Facilities Grant[3].
Keep all rent receipts organized and stored safely.

If your landlord refuses

If a landlord refuses without reasonable grounds you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)[2] for a decision. The tribunal can decide whether the change should be allowed, order reasonable terms, and address any repayment or reinstatement questions. Before applying, keep written evidence of your request and the landlord's reply.

Respond to legal notices within deadlines to avoid losing rights.
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Paying for adaptations and grants

Local councils and health services sometimes fund necessary adaptations; Disabled Facilities Grants or social care support can cover part or all of costs depending on need and means. Start by contacting your local authority housing or social work department to request an assessment, and ask for the official application form. If a grant is approved, the council will set conditions about who pays and how work is completed.

Detailed documentation increases your chances of success in disputes.

FAQ

Do I always need landlord permission to make accessibility changes?
Most structural changes and permanent fixtures require landlord permission; small temporary aids may not. Check your tenancy agreement and ask in writing.
Can I get funding to make changes?
You may be eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant or local authority support; contact your council for the specific application form and process.[3]
What if the landlord refuses and I cannot agree?
You can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) to decide the case; gather evidence and follow the tribunal application guidance.[2]

How-To

  1. Write to your landlord explaining the required change and why.
  2. Include clear evidence: dated photos and a medical or occupational therapy report.
  3. If refused, apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) using the tribunal application form and provide copies of your correspondence.
  4. Seek Disabled Facilities Grant or council adaptations funding and complete local authority forms as advised by your assessor.

Key Takeaways

  • Ask permission in writing and keep copies of all communication.
  • Use official application forms and follow your local authority guidance for grants.
  • If agreement fails, apply to the tribunal with clear evidence.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 - Legislation.gov.uk
  2. [2] First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)
  3. [3] Scottish Government: Adaptations for disabled people

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Alistair MacPherson
Alistair MacPherson

Scottish & Northern Irish Tenancy Law Analyst, Tenant Rights UK

Alistair specialises in the distinct private tenancy frameworks of Scotland and Northern Ireland. He has closely followed the development of the Scottish Private Residential Tenancy since its introduction and advises on Housing Rights NI processes and protections.

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