Move-In Safety Checklist for Tenants with Disabilities Wales

Moving into a new home when you have a disability raises extra safety and accessibility priorities. This checklist helps tenants and renters in Wales perform focused checks before signing a tenancy and during the first days in a property. It covers practical steps such as assessing access routes and thresholds, confirming alarms and heating work, requesting reasonable adjustments in writing, and documenting any hazards or repairs. The guidance also explains which official forms to use, when to contact your landlord or local authority, and how to escalate unresolved issues to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber). Use it to reduce risk, set clear expectations, and keep records that protect your rights as a tenant.

Move-in safety checklist

Use this checklist when viewing a property, before signing the tenancy, and again on move-in day. Keep copies of all communications and photos dated on your phone or cloud storage.

• Inspect entry routes, door widths, thresholds and step-free access to confirm they meet your mobility needs.
• Check heating, hot water, ventilation and plumbing are working and safe; report faults immediately in writing.
• Obtain and photograph any safety records left by the landlord, such as gas safety records or previous repair receipts.
• Submit a written request for reasonable adjustments (details below) and keep the dated copy as evidence.
• Confirm smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms are fitted where required and test them on arrival.
• Note the condition of floors, carpets and rugs to ensure they do not present trip hazards for mobility aids.
• Create a short emergency contact list: landlord, agent, local emergency services and a trusted contact.

If an adaptation is needed (handrails, ramps or accessible bathing), ask the landlord and your local authority about a Disabled Facilities Grant and how an adaptation can be approved or funded.^[3] Put requests in writing and propose practical adjustments that meet your needs.

Reasonable adjustments and communication

Explain clearly what you need and why, linking the request to your disability-related needs. A written note or email sets a clear record; include dates and how the adjustment will help with daily living or safety.

• Describe the adjustment and why it is necessary, and request a reasonable timescale for completion.
• Keep copies of replies, photos of the issue, and any medical letters that support the request.
• If you need help drafting a request, contact your local council housing duty team or an advice service for support.

When repairs or safety concerns are not fixed

If the landlord does not address serious safety faults or refuse reasonable adjustments, you can escalate. For unresolved housing disputes in Wales the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) deals with many residential property matters; consider an application if informal steps fail.^[1]

• If the issue affects habitability, notify the landlord in writing and set a reasonable deadline for repair.
• Collect evidence: dated photos, copies of written requests and replies, and records of any health impacts.
• If informal routes fail, apply to the First-tier Tribunal or ask your local authority to inspect where there is a statutory duty.

Legal context and tenant protections

Tenants in Wales are protected by England & Wales legislation such as the Housing Act 1988 and Rent Act 1977 for certain tenancy rights and possession procedures; these laws set out landlord and tenant obligations and timeframes for notices and proceedings.^[2] Use official guidance when you need to check notice periods or your rights in specific circumstances.

FAQ

How do I request a reasonable adjustment from my landlord?

Put the request in writing, explain the adjustment and why it is required for your disability, include any supporting documents, and ask for a timescale for completion.

What records should I keep on move-in day?

Keep dated photos, an inventory copy, copies of the signed tenancy, gas and electrical records if provided, and all written communication with the landlord or agent.

Where can I apply if the landlord refuses reasonable adjustments?

If mediation fails you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for a resolution or seek assistance from your local authority depending on the issue.

How-To

1. Identify and document the specific safety or accessibility need with photos and any supporting medical letters.
2. Write a clear request to your landlord describing the adjustment, proposed solution and a reasonable deadline.
3. Follow up by phone if needed and confirm any verbal conversations in writing to create a dated record.
4. If unresolved, gather your evidence and apply to the First-tier Tribunal or contact your local authority for enforcement.

Key Takeaways

• Document every safety concern and any landlord responses promptly and keep dated copies.
• Request reasonable adjustments in writing and include clear, practical proposals for the work.
• Use official routes such as local authority enforcement or the First-tier Tribunal if informal steps fail.

Help and Support / Resources

• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - GOV.UK
• Disabled Facilities Grant guidance - GOV.UK
• Housing Act 1988 - legislation.gov.uk

1. [1] First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - GOV.UK
2. [2] Housing Act 1988 - legislation.gov.uk
3. [3] Disabled Facilities Grant guidance - GOV.UK