Disabled tenants in Wales often face extra barriers when renting, from inaccessible features to the need for reasonable adjustments. This guide explains how the Renting Homes Wales Act changes contracts and landlord responsibilities, what reasonable adjustments you can ask for, and the practical steps to protect your housing rights in Wales. It covers how to make a written request, what evidence helps, timeframes to expect, and where to apply if a landlord refuses or fails to act. The language is plain, with clear examples and links to official guidance and tribunal routes so you can take informed, practical steps if you need repairs, adaptations or protection from unlawful eviction.
What the Renting Homes Wales Act means for disabled renters
The Renting Homes (Wales) Act modernises occupation contracts and sets out clearer landlord obligations about the condition of a property and the conduct of occupation. It does not reduce disability protections; it requires landlords to respect contract terms while also operating within the Equality Act 2010 duties to make reasonable adjustments where needed.[1]
Key rights and landlord duties
As a disabled renter in Wales you can rely on three practical protections:
- Ask for reasonable adjustments in writing so there is a clear record of your request.
- Request adaptations or repairs to make the home accessible, such as ramps, grab rails or changes to heating and plumbing.
- Expect proper notice and timing for landlord entry; you can ask for privacy-related adjustments to inspection schedules.
If a landlord refuses a reasonable adjustment or does not carry out repairs that affect your ability to live safely, you can raise the issue formally, request mediation, or apply to the appropriate tribunal or court for a remedy. In Wales the residential property tribunal route is the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for many housing disputes.[2]
Making a written request and collecting evidence
Make requests in clear, dated letters or emails. Explain the adjustment you need, why it is reasonable, and how it will reduce disadvantage. Include evidence where possible and set a reasonable deadline for response (for example, two weeks for simple fixes, longer for major adaptations).
- Write a clear request describing the problem and the adjustment you want, with a suggested timescale.
- Supply supporting evidence such as a GP letter, occupational therapist report, or dated photos showing the issue.
- Note any deadlines or follow-up dates and remind your landlord in writing if you do not get a timely reply.
When to escalate: mediation, tribunal or court
If informal requests fail, you can ask the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) or the county court to consider the matter depending on the type of dispute and remedy sought. Typical routes include asking the landlord to carry out repairs, seeking compensation, or applying for an order to require adaptations. Before making a formal application, gather your written requests, evidence, and a clear chronology of events.
Practical example
Example: You ask in writing for a ramp to your main entrance. You attach a short note from an occupational therapist and ask for a response within 28 days. If the landlord refuses without reason, you send a final written request, then apply to the tribunal or court if the landlord still does not act.
FAQ
- Can a landlord refuse a reasonable adjustment?
- A landlord must consider requests for reasonable adjustments; refusal is only lawful if the change is not reasonable, would cause unjustifiable harm, or is impossible to make. If refused, you can request written reasons and consider tribunal or court action.
- Do I need medical evidence to request an adaptation?
- Medical or occupational therapist evidence helps but is not always mandatory; clear written explanations and photos can be sufficient to start the process.
- What if urgent repairs affect my safety?
- If a repair affects safety or habitability, report it immediately in writing and ask for urgent action; retain copies of all communications and consider contacting local authority environmental health if the landlord fails to act.
How-To
- Write a dated request describing the adjustment you need and why, and send it to your landlord by email or recorded post.
- Attach supporting evidence such as medical or occupational therapist notes and photos of the problem.
- Allow a reasonable timeframe for a response and follow up in writing if no reply is received.
- If the landlord refuses or does not act, seek advice and consider applying to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) with your written records.
Key Takeaways
- Make requests in writing and keep dated copies and evidence.
- Landlords must consider reasonable adjustments and carry out necessary repairs.
- If the landlord does not act, you can use tribunal or court routes with your documentation.
Help and Support / Resources
- Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 - legislation.gov.uk
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - GOV.UK
- Rent Smart Wales - Welsh Government
