Disabled tenants in Scotland have rights to ask for reasonable adjustments from landlords and agents so they can use and enjoy their home. This guide explains what a reasonable adjustment is, when a landlord must provide one, how to make a clear written request, what evidence to gather, and what to do if your request is refused or ignored. It covers the legal background, practical examples such as ramps or adapted fixtures, timelines for responses, and how to take a case to the Housing and Property Chamber. The language is plain and aimed at renters who need a step-by-step approach to protect their independence and housing security.
What counts as a reasonable adjustment?
In Scotland a reasonable adjustment can mean physical changes (for example a ramp or grab rails), changes to how a landlord communicates with you, or changes to policies to avoid disadvantaging a disabled tenant. Tenancy law for private residential tenancies is set out in the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 [1] and non-discrimination duties are explained under the Equality Act 2010 guidance on GOV.UK Equality Act guidance[2]. Whether an adjustment is "reasonable" depends on cost, practicality and safety.
How to ask your landlord for an adjustment
Follow a clear, written process to make it easier to resolve the request informally and to show evidence later if you apply to the tribunal.
- Write a short, dated letter or email setting out the adjustment you need and why.
- Attach supporting evidence such as a medical letter, occupational therapist report or photos of the obstruction.
- Give a reasonable deadline for a response (for example 14 or 28 days depending on urgency).
- Offer to discuss practical options and suggest reasonable alternatives if the original request is difficult to meet.
- Say you may apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) if you cannot agree a solution; the tribunal deals with private tenancy disputes in Scotland Housing and Property Chamber[3].
Official forms and when to use them
There is no single statutory "reasonable adjustments" form to send to a landlord; start with a dated written request from you. If discussions fail, the main official form to use is the tribunal application available from the Housing and Property Chamber website. Use the tribunal application when a landlord refuses a reasonable adjustment, delays unreasonably, or breaks tenancy obligations connected to the adjustment.
- Application to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) — application form (available on the Chamber website). Example: a tenant who asked for a ramp but was refused can attach the original request, medical evidence and photos when applying for a tribunal decision.
- Written request (no formal number) — use a dated letter or email to the landlord explaining the adjustment needed and attaching evidence; keep a copy for your records.
If you cannot resolve the issue informally
If your landlord does not respond or refuses, you can:
- Contact mediation services or a local advice agency to seek early help and negotiation.
- Apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) using the application form and include copies of your written request and evidence.
- Observe any tribunal deadlines and provide any additional documents promptly when requested.
FAQ
- Do landlords have to make changes to my home?
- Landlords must consider reasonable adjustments; whether they must make a change depends on reasonableness, safety, tenancy type and cost. Start by requesting an adjustment in writing and provide evidence.
- How long should I wait for a reply?
- Reasonable timescales depend on the change requested; for urgent safety matters expect a quicker response, otherwise allow at least 14–28 days before escalating.
- Can I pay for adaptations myself?
- Sometimes tenants arrange and pay for adaptations with the landlord's written permission; keep invoices and approvals in case of future disputes.
How-To
- Prepare a dated written request explaining the adjustment and the reason for it.
- Attach supporting evidence such as a medical letter or occupational therapist report.
- Give the landlord a reasonable deadline to respond, for example 14–28 days depending on urgency.
- If there is no resolution, seek local advice or mediation and keep records of all contacts.
- If necessary, apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) and attach your written request and evidence.
Help and Support / Resources
- Housing and Property Chamber, First-tier Tribunal for Scotland
- Scottish Government: housing and homelessness
- Citizens Advice Scotland
