Requesting a Ground Floor Flat: Disabled Renters’ Rights in Scotland

Finding suitable accommodation in Scotland can be challenging, especially if you have mobility needs or a disability. If you’re a renter and need a ground floor flat due to health, mobility, or disability reasons, Scottish law offers specific protections and procedures. This article explains your rights, how to make a request, and what support is available for disabled and vulnerable renters in Scotland.

Your Rights to Request a Ground Floor Property in Scotland

Scottish landlords and social housing providers have legal duties to consider the needs of disabled and vulnerable renters. If your disability or health condition makes it difficult to live above ground level, you can ask for a reasonable adjustment such as being offered a ground floor home. These rights are protected by both the Equality Act 2010 and Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016^[1][2].

Who Can Make This Request?

• Individuals with mobility difficulties, disabilities, or health conditions impacted by stairs or lack of lift access.
• Older renters who struggle with upper floors.
• Anyone considered a ‘vulnerable person’ under local housing allocation policies.

Requests can be made whether you rent from the council, a housing association, or a private landlord. Social housing providers have formal processes for addressing such needs.

How to Request a Ground Floor Property

If you currently rent and want to move, or need changes to your existing tenancy, you should:

• Contact your landlord or letting agent and explain your needs clearly, preferably in writing.
• For council or housing association tenants, update your housing application and request to be reassessed for medical need.
• For private rented sector tenants, ask your landlord about property transfers or adaptations. You can request reasonable adjustments to policy or procedure under the Equality Act.

Be ready to supply evidence from your GP, specialist, or social worker explaining your mobility needs.

Relevant Forms and Applications

• Housing Application Form (varies by council or housing association): Used by social housing applicants to indicate a need for a ground floor property.
  • When to use: If applying for a new social tenancy or updating your application to reflect a change in circumstances.
  • Example: Completing the Glasgow City Council housing application and selecting ‘mobility needs’.
• Medical Assessment Form: Most local authorities and housing associations require this to support your request.
  • When to use: If you are requesting a priority move or adaptation due to medical needs.
  • Example: Edinburgh City Council’s medical priority assessment form.
• Reasonable Adjustment Request (no standard form): For private tenants, requests should be clear and preferably written; state your needs and any changes required.

Always check your council or letting agent’s website for official forms. There is no national standard for private sector reasonable adjustment requests – a letter or email in your own words is sufficient, supported by medical evidence when possible.

What Is a ‘Reasonable Adjustment’?

Under the Equality Act 2010 (Part 2), landlords must consider changes to accommodate disabled tenants, known as ‘reasonable adjustments’. This could include:

• Allowing you to move to a ground floor flat
• Installing ramps or handrails
• Permitting equipment or adaptations

The law does not require landlords to make structural changes to buildings, but they must consider practical and reasonable solutions. Social landlords often have more flexibility than private landlords.

The First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) handles disputes about reasonable adjustments, discrimination, and tenancy rights for private renters.

If Your Request Is Refused

If a social housing provider refuses your request for a ground floor property, you can ask for a review or appeal. If you’re a private renter and believe your landlord is not making reasonable adjustments, you can formally complain or apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber). The tribunal can order landlords to comply with their duties if necessary.

Action Steps for Disputes

• Write to your landlord or council, stating your request and providing supporting medical evidence.
• If refused, follow their official complaints process (found on the council or housing association website).
• If unresolved, consider applying to the tribunal—see the official tribunal application process.

Support is available from advice agencies if you need help preparing your case or filling in forms.

FAQ: Ground Floor Requests and Disability Rights in Scotland

1. Can I ask my landlord for a move to a ground floor flat?
   Yes, under the Equality Act 2010, you may request a move if you have a disability or medical need. Social landlords will review your application based on evidence. Private landlords must consider reasonable adjustments but are not required to offer a different property.
2. What evidence will I need?
   Usually a letter from your GP, occupational therapist, or support worker explaining why you need a ground floor home. Councils or housing associations may also ask for an official medical assessment form.
3. Does the law cover private sector renters?
   Yes. The Equality Act 2010 applies to both private and social landlords in Scotland. While private landlords aren’t always able to move you to a new property, they must consider reasonable requests that do not incur unreasonable cost or difficulty.
4. What should I do if my request is refused?
   Follow your landlord’s complaints process. If you believe you’ve been unfairly treated or discriminated against, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) for a decision.
5. Is there a form to complain to the tribunal?
   Yes. The tribunal provides an Application Form for issues involving landlord obligations or discrimination. Follow the official process and include your supporting evidence.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• You can formally request a ground floor property if you have disability or mobility needs.
• Social landlords have clear processes and forms; private landlords must still consider reasonable adjustments.
• If refused, you have the right to challenge the decision with the help of the Housing and Property Chamber.

Always collect supporting evidence and use official channels to protect your rights as a renter in Scotland.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• mygov.scot Housing Advice – Official guidance on housing and disability rights in Scotland
• Scottish Disability Equality Forum Advice – Advocacy and support for disabled renters
• First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) – Official tribunal for tenancy issues
• Citizens Advice Scotland – Renting Privately – Independent advice for all tenants
• Applying for social housing in Scotland

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1. Equality Act 2010, Section 20 – Duty to make adjustments
2. Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016
3. First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)

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