ACT Disability Access & Tenant Adjustments

As a renter in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), understanding your rights regarding disability access and adjustments is crucial for ensuring comfortable and accessible living conditions. In the ACT, tenants with disabilities are protected under various legislative frameworks, which aim to promote fairness and inclusivity in housing.

Understanding Disability Access in the ACT

In the ACT, landlords are required to comply with federal laws, such as the Disability Discrimination Act 1992, in ensuring that rental properties are accessible to tenants with disabilities. This may involve making reasonable adjustments or modifications to the property.

Reasonable Adjustments Explained

Reasonable adjustments refer to necessary and feasible changes made to a rented property to accommodate a tenant with disabilities. This could include installing ramps, railings, or modifying doorways to enhance accessibility. The goal is to ensure the property is accessible without imposing an undue burden on the landlord.

How to Request Adjustments

1. Identify Required Adjustments: Determine what adjustments are needed for accessibility in your rental property.
2. Submit a Request: Provide a written request to your landlord detailing the required adjustments. Include any supporting documentation like medical certificates.
3. Negotiate Terms: Discuss and agree upon the logistics of making these adjustments with your landlord, including who will bear the costs and how long the changes will take.
4. Formalize Agreement: Once terms are agreed, document the agreement in writing to ensure both parties are clear about their responsibilities.

Legal Protections and Responsibilities

The Residential Tenancies Act 1997 provides a legal framework for tenant and landlord rights in the ACT, including aspects related to disability access. It's essential for tenants to familiarize themselves with these provisions to effectively advocate for necessary adjustments.

The ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) is the official body that handles residential tenancy disputes. If you and your landlord cannot reach an agreement concerning adjustments, you may apply to ACAT for assistance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal
• Tenants' Union ACT
• ACT Government Renting Information

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1. What are reasonable adjustments in renting?Reasonable adjustments are changes made to a rental property to ensure it is accessible to tenants with disabilities, without causing undue hardship to landlords.
2. How do I negotiate adjustments with my landlord?Submit a written request detailing the adjustments needed, provide any necessary documentation, and engage in negotiations to reach a mutually agreeable solution.
3. What if my landlord refuses to make adjustments?If your landlord refuses to accommodate reasonable adjustments, you can apply to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal for resolution.

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1. How to Request Adjustments in a Rental Property
   1. Identify Required Adjustments: Determine what adjustments are needed for accessibility in your rental property.
   2. Submit a Request: Provide a written request to your landlord detailing the required adjustments. Include any supporting documentation like medical certificates.
   3. Negotiate Terms: Discuss and agree upon the logistics of making these adjustments with your landlord, including who will bear the costs and how long the changes will take.
   4. Formalize Agreement: Once terms are agreed, document the agreement in writing to ensure both parties are clear about their responsibilities.

• Tenants with disabilities in the ACT have the right to request reasonable adjustments to rental properties.
• The Residential Tenancies Act 1997 provides a legal framework supporting tenant rights and responsibilities.
• Resources like ACAT can assist if disputes arise between tenants and landlords.

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