Tenants and renters in Wales who have a disability or long-term health condition are entitled to reasonable adjustments to make a home accessible and liveable. This page explains, in simple terms, what reasonable adjustments are, when you can ask your landlord or managing agent to make them, and what to do if a request is refused. It covers your practical steps - documenting needs, making a written request, helpful forms, and how to take a complaint to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) if necessary. The guidance uses tenant-focused examples so you can see how to apply the law in everyday situations and find official Welsh and UK tribunal contacts.
What are reasonable adjustments?
Reasonable adjustments are changes landlords or managing agents must consider when a tenant has a disability or long-term condition. They aim to remove barriers to using and enjoying a home. Requests for reasonable adjustments are often supported by the Equality Act 2010 guidance on GOV.UK guidance. Reasonable adjustments can be physical (ramps, handrails), procedural (allowing different payment dates) or communication-based (large-print notices).
Your rights and relevant law
In Wales residential tenancy law is primarily governed by the Housing Act 1988[2] and Rent Act 1977[3], while equality duties come from the Equality Act 2010. If your landlord refuses or does not respond, you may be able to apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for a determination[1]. See the tribunal page for application and evidence guidance: First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).
How to request adjustments
Start with a clear written request to your landlord or managing agent. Include the adjustment needed, why it is necessary, and any supporting evidence such as medical letters, photos, or reports.
- Contact your landlord or managing agent in writing, explaining the adjustment and proposed timescales.
- Attach evidence (medical letters, photos, measurements) and say what outcome you want.
- Set a reasonable deadline for a response, for example within 14 days.
If your request is refused
If the landlord refuses or ignores a reasonable request, keep copies of the request and all responses. You can try mediation or a formal complaint, then apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for a decision. Landlords who begin possession proceedings may use court forms such as the N5 claim form; tenants facing eviction should get advice and consider responding to court forms promptly. See the N5 form on GOV.UK: Claim form (N5).
FAQ
- What counts as a reasonable adjustment?
- A reasonable adjustment is any change that helps a tenant with a disability use or live in their home, such as ramps, handrails, altered payment schedules, or clearer communication.
- Can I ask for changes to shared areas or communal doors?
- Yes. Landlords or managing agents responsible for communal areas should consider reasonable adjustments to entrances, lifts or communal spaces when these affect a tenant's access.
- How long does a landlord have to respond?
- There is no single statutory deadline for every request, but setting a clear timeframe like 14 days is common and helps if you later take the matter to a tribunal.
How-To
- Identify the specific barrier and the adjustment you need.
- Make a written request to your landlord or managing agent and keep a copy.
- Gather supporting evidence such as medical letters, photos and receipts.
- If refused, apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) and attach your documentation.
- Attend the hearing or provide written evidence; follow the tribunal guidance on what to bring.
Key Takeaways
- Ask in writing and keep every reply and receipt as evidence.
- Reasonable adjustments can be physical, procedural or communication-based.
- If refused, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for help.
Help and Support / Resources
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) — how to apply
- Welsh Government — renting a home in Wales
- Rent Smart Wales — landlord and agent registration
